Wiesbaden, Germany – The 22nd Deutsches FernsehKrimi-Festival is set to kick off on May 3rd, 2026, promising a week of thrilling crime dramas and premieres. The festival, held in Wiesbaden, will showcase a selection of German television’s best crime productions, offering fans a first look at upcoming series and a chance to connect with the stars behind their favorite shows. This year’s event is particularly notable for honoring veteran “Tatort” commissioners Ivo Batic and Franz Leitmayr, played by Miroslav Nemec and Udo Wachtveitl, respectively, with a special lifetime achievement award.
The Deutsches FernsehKrimi-Festival has become a cornerstone event for the German television industry, serving as a platform for new series and a celebration of the crime genre. The festival’s program includes ten television crime dramas and three crime series, with three premieres and two Germany premieres scheduled throughout the week. The event takes place at the Caligari Filmbühne, a historic cinema recently renovated in time for its 100th anniversary in December.
The opening ceremony on May 3rd will be a highlight, recognizing Nemec and Wachtveitl for their decades-long contribution to the iconic “Tatort” series. Over 35 years, the duo investigated over 100 criminal cases, captivating audiences with their compelling performances. Their dedication and impact on German television will be formally acknowledged at the event.
Beyond the screenings and award ceremony, the festival will feature discussions with actors, directors, and screenwriters. Confirmed attendees include Rosalie Thomass, Andrea Sawatzki, Fabian Hinrichs, Eva Löbau, Hans-Jochen Wagner, Sönke Möhring, Jonas Nay, Florian Geißelmann, and Anna Shirin Habedank. Dustin Loose, Stefan Schaller, Buket Alakuş, and Laila Stieler are among the directors and writers too expected to participate, fostering a dialogue between creators and audiences.
Several new series will debut at the festival, including premieres of “Tatort – Gottesgarten” and “Tatort – Dunkelheit” on May 5th. “Polizeiruf 110 – Sie haben Namen” will also have its Hessen premiere on May 7th. The festival schedule is packed with opportunities for fans to see their favorite crime shows on the large screen and engage with the talent involved in their production.
The festival isn’t solely focused on established series. “Acht,” and “Eierkratz-Komplott – Ein Stinatz Krimi” will both receive their Germany premieres during the event, offering a glimpse into the future of German crime television. The inclusion of these newer productions demonstrates the festival’s commitment to showcasing emerging talent and innovative storytelling.
The jury responsible for awarding the 2026 Deutscher FernsehKrimi-Preis includes actress and screenwriter Isabell Polak and MDR editor Denise Langenhan, who specializes in East German television productions. Their expertise will ensure a comprehensive and insightful evaluation of the nominated films and series.
For those planning to attend, tickets went on sale on April 24th, 2026. The Caligari Filmbühne box office opens 30 minutes before each event during the festival. Tickets can also be purchased online. The Tourist Information center in Wiesbaden is available for visitors needing assistance with travel or accommodations.
The Deutsches FernsehKrimi-Festival is organized by the Wiesbaden Cultural Office, with support from Hessen Film & Medien, the Hessian Broadcasting Corporation (Hessischer Rundfunk), and SV SparkassenVersicherung, in cooperation with the Wiesbaden Media Center and Wiesbadener Kurier.
Following the festival, the Deutscher FernsehKrimi-Preis will be awarded on May 8th, recognizing excellence in German television crime programming. The event promises to be a fitting conclusion to a week dedicated to the genre, celebrating the creativity and talent within the German television industry.
The 22nd Deutsches FernsehKrimi-Festival concludes on May 10th, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the broadcast of the showcased series and the continued evolution of German crime television. The festival’s impact extends beyond the screenings and awards, fostering a vibrant community of creators and enthusiasts.
Key Takeaways:
- The 22nd Deutsches FernsehKrimi-Festival runs from May 3rd to May 10th, 2026, in Wiesbaden, Germany.
- Veteran “Tatort” actors Miroslav Nemec and Udo Wachtveitl will receive a lifetime achievement award.
- The festival will feature premieres of several new and established German crime series.
- Tickets are available for purchase online and at the Caligari Filmbühne box office.
Stay tuned to Archysport for further updates on the Deutscher FernsehKrimi-Preis and the broadcast details of the showcased series. What are your thoughts on the upcoming festival? Share your predictions and excitement in the comments below!
