Well-known crime series is discontinued after 20 years

An era at ZDF is coming to an end: After 20 years, the television station is saying goodbye to a well-known crime series. However, the ratings are not responsible. The main reason for the ending lies with the main actress.

Even her first case in 2003 was difficult: Chief Inspector Ellen Lucas had to solve the murder of a five-year-old child. Since then, the somewhat demure but lovable detective has been arresting murderers and other criminals. But after 20 years, that’s the end of it.

ZDF hires “Inspector Lucas” after 20 years

In October ends the successful crime series “Inspector Lucas” (Source: Mercury). This happens at the request of leading actress Ulrike Krienerwho wants to devote herself to other acting tasks.

Kriener’s desire to quit the service had been growing for a long time. According to her own statement, the 68-year-old wanted to end this phase of life harmoniously and in consultation with the team, broadcaster and producer.

Above all, the actress wanted one thing: not be shot!

“I didn’t want to be shot under any circumstances,” Kriener admits in an interview with Merkur. Her screenwriter Christian Jeltsch also fulfilled this wish.

“I find it unworthy if you always talk about ‘the strong women’ beforehand, and then they’re supposed to die such a stupid hero’s death in the end and end up bleeding and whimpering in the arms of their assistants?” explains the actress, who died in 1991 awarded the Adolf Grimme Prize became.

Because if you start strong, you should also finish strong. Kriener believes that the team behind “Inspector Lucas” has also succeeded.

With streaming you are your own program director:

The crime series was a hit with ratings

The self-chosen end of “Inspector Lucas” is a hard blow for ZDF. The crime series always had high ratings.

The last two episodes will be shown on ZDF on October 7th and 28th, 2023 at 8:15 p.m.