Sky Original Der Kaiser in the Works

The Sky original film Der Kaiser, which tells the story of football legend Franz Beckenbauer, has commenced filming in Prague.

Produced by Bavaria Fiction on behalf of Sky Studios, Der Kaiser delves into the biography of Beckenbauer and his battle against the rigid structures and outdated rules in football. It is set against the backdrop of games and tournaments, culminating in the World Cup titles of 1974 and 1990. Der Kaiser is slated to broadcast at the end of 2022.

Directed by Tim Trageser (Der Lissabon Krimi—Die verlorene Tochter, The Magic Kid) with Martin Rauhaus (Allmen, Endlich Witwer) responsible for the script, Der Kaiser stars Klaus Steinbacher (Das Boot, Oktoberfest 1900) in the leading role. Ferdinand Hofer (Tatort München), Teresa Rizos (J.G.A.), Stefan Murr (The Ibiza Affair), Oliver Konietzny (Kids Run), Bettina Mittendorfer (Zimmer mit Stall), Heinz-Josef Braun (Hindafing), Christine Eixenberger (Marie fängt Feuer) and Sina Tkotsch (UP UP) also star.

NBCUniversal Global Distribution is responsible for international distribution of Der Kaiser on behalf of Sky Studios.

Frank Jastfelder, director of Sky originals, scripted, said: “Franz Beckenbauer made history by winning the World Cup as a player and as a coach. But his brilliant performances off the soccer field also made him a legend. Together with Bavaria Fiction, we are now bringing the unique icon’s career from the 1960s to the great World Cup final in Rome in 1990 to vibrant life. We are delighted to be working with a great team led by Klaus Steinbacher as Kaiser Franz to make this exciting Sky original biopic.”

Marcus Ammon, managing director of content at Bavaria Fiction, said: “Kaiser, icon, world champion: Franz Beckenbauer fascinates on and off the football pitch. Even after more than 30 years, it is unforgettable how he walks alone across the lawn of the Olympic Stadium after the final victory in Rome amidst the hustle and bustle around him. A true goosebump moment. I am all the more pleased that we are now working with Sky and a top-class team in front of and behind the camera to trace the multifaceted life of Franz Beckenbauer from his footballing beginnings to winning the World Cup in 1990—true to his motto: ‘Let’s have a look and see.'”