New Detective Duo Debuts in Frankfurt 'Tatort' with Cold Case Thriller

The iconic German crime series 'Tatort' introduces a new detective team in Frankfurt with the debut of Maryam Azadi and Hamza Kulina. Their first episode, titled 'Dunkelheit' premiered on October 5, 2025, focusing on a chilling cold case involving human remains discovered during an apartment clearance. Azadi, played by Melika Foroutan, leads the cold case unit which she previously headed solo. Kulina, portrayed by Edin Hasanović, joins her as the new partner bringing sharp observational skills and a sense of justice.

The investigation reveals the victim is the daughter of a man linked to a notorious serial killer known for a double life, with past unresolved cases dating back to the 1970s. The detectives face a tight three-day deadline after the media learns of the remains, pushing them to quickly identify the victim and alert the family. The case grows more complex when another victim surfaces, highlighting the intricacies of cold case work.

Frankfurt serves as a fitting backdrop with its blend of skyscrapers, historic sites, and reputation as one of Germany's most dangerous cities. This marks a fresh chapter for 'Tatort,' replacing the former detectives Janneke and Brix who concluded their decade-long run in 2024. The new duo's dynamic pairs Azadi’s compassionate intelligence with Kulina’s calm precision, promising an engaging synergy for viewers, substantial enough to attract over eight million Sunday viewers.

According to Bild, the new Frankfurt 'Tatort' era brings a fresh perspective to the long-standing series by tackling cold cases for the first time after 55 years, highlighting the ongoing evolution of this beloved crime drama.