Stephan Derrick was portrayed by actor Horst Tappert, while Fritz Wepper acted as his assistant Harry Klein. The show was a huge hit and became one of the most popular German TV series in history, with episodes being broadcasted in over 100 countries.
The show's format was unique in that it focused more on the psychological aspects of the crimes Derrick and Klein investigated, rather than the action or violence. As such, it became known for its slow pacing and moody atmosphere.
Each episode began with the murder or crime, which was then followed by Derrick interviewing witnesses, suspects, and sometimes even the victim's family and friends to piece together what happened. The show also often dealt with social themes such as prejudice, corruption, and societal pressures.
Despite its popularity, the show has received criticism over the years for its portrayal of women and minorities, with some arguing that it perpetuated negative stereotypes. Nonetheless, it remains a beloved and iconic show in German television history.
