Acclaimed German Crime Drama Producer Passes Away

MAINZ: Helmut Ringelmann, producer of hit German crime dramas Siska, Der Alte (The Old Fox) and Derrick, has passed away at the age of 84.

“Helmut Ringelmann created works that continue to set standards in TV production not only in Germany but also throughout the world," said Dr. Alexander Coridass, the president and CEO at ZDF Enterprises, which distributes Ringelmann’s crime dramas. "He invested all of his exceptional creativity and strength into the development and production of his series, and if ever anyone deserved the mention ‘A series created by…’ in the opening credits, then he.

"His crime series were the first German TV programs to be sold abroad in great volumes, thus paving the way for German productions on the international market. Helmut Ringelmann was also always concerned about the needs of the global market and took these needs into consideration. We had an active and regular exchange of ideas on how to achieve success on the international market. The worldwide distribution of his productions was one of the major keystones for the success of ZDF Enterprises. We lose a friend, a partner and an adviser. Our thoughts go out to his wife Evelyn Opela and his family.”