Tatort Teams: A Closer Look at Germany’s Beloved Crime Series
The German crime series “Tatort” has been captivating audiences since its inception in 1970. With a vast array of different teams and settings, the show has become a beloved institution in German television. Each “Tatort” episode takes place in a different city or region, with unique characters and storylines. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular “Tatort” teams across the country.
Odenthal and Stern in Ludwigshafen: The Longest-serving Team
Ulrike Folkerts has been portraying Kommissarin Lena Odenthal since 1989, making her the longest-serving investigator in “Tatort” history. Her character has worked on nearly 80 cases and shows no signs of retiring soon. In 2014, Lisa Bitter joined the team as Johanna Stern, initially as a sidekick but gradually becoming a full-fledged partner. While the mix of action and social commentary in recent episodes has been criticized at times, the evolution of Odenthal and Stern’s dynamic has been well-received.
Borowski and Sahin in Kiel: A Complex Partnership
Axel Milberg, portraying Klaus Borowski, and Almila Bagriacik as Mila Sahin, form a challenging partnership in the coastal city of Kiel. Borowski, an investigator since 2003, often delves into the minds of psychopaths, blurring the lines between sanity and madness. Sahin, a strong and young colleague, brings her own perspective to the team. However, with Milberg’s announcement of departing the show in 2025, Sahin may soon find herself on her own.
Boerne and Thiel in Münster: Unlikely Allies
Jan Josef Liefers as Karl-Friedrich Boerne and Axel Prahl as Frank Thiel make up one of the most unique “Tatort” duos. Boerne, a snobbish forensic pathologist, and Thiel, a rough-around-the-edges detective, have been solving crimes in Münster since 2002. Initially characterized by grotesque humor, the series has since shifted towards more comedic gags. Regardless, the Boerne and Thiel team consistently tops the “Tatort” ratings year after year.
Gorniak, Winkler, and Schnabel in Dresden: Constantly Evolving
The Dresden “Tatort” team has undergone significant changes over the years. Currently comprised of Karin Hanczewski, Cornelia Göschel, and Martin Brambach, the team tackles gritty cop thrillers that push their physical and emotional boundaries. As of 2025, Hanczewski has announced her departure, adding another layer of uncertainty to the dynamic. The Dresden team’s ability to adapt to different storylines and maintain audience engagement has been impressive.
These are just a few of the many “Tatort” teams spread across Germany. Each team offers a unique blend of crime-solving, character development, and regional flavor. Whether it’s the long-standing partnership of Odenthal and Stern, the unlikely alliance between Boerne and Thiel, or the evolving dynamics in Dresden, “Tatort” continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling and engaging crime stories.