Udo Wachtveitl to Exit 'Tatort' After 100th Episode in 2025

The actor reflects on his 35-year career, critiques the show's clichés, and discusses his decision to step away alongside co-star Miroslav Nemec.

Udo Wachtveitl, who has played Kommissar Franz Leitmayr since 1991, will film his final 'Tatort' episode in 2025, marking his 100th appearance on the series.
Wachtveitl and his long-time co-star Miroslav Nemec, who plays Ivo Batic, will both leave the show after nearly 35 years as the Munich detective duo.
The actor expressed frustration with recurring clichés in 'Tatort,' such as the lack of sympathetic portrayals of wealthy characters and an overemphasis on character quirks at the expense of compelling storytelling.
Wachtveitl noted that the casting of two white, similarly aged male leads might not align with current expectations for diversity in television today.
Both actors aim for a low-key departure, wanting their characters to be remembered as relatable and life-affirming figures rather than ending with dramatic overstatement.