Max Müller Reduces Filming Schedule on "The Rosenheim Cops"

Actor Max Müller, a staple of the popular German ZDF television series "The Rosenheim Cops" since its inception in 2002, is significantly reducing his filming schedule. Requesting a workload reduction of approximately one third from the show's producer last autumn, Müller will appear less frequently as Chief Police Officer Michael "Michi" Mohr during the current 26th season.

The 61-year-old actor explained that the decision stems from personal responsibilities, specifically the need to care for his 87-year-old mother, who lives in a care facility near Vienna. As an only child whose father has passed away, Müller emphasized that his presence is vital for her well-being. "My mom just needs me now. I am the only child, my dad is no longer alive, and it is simply important now that I am there for her," he stated in the ZDF documentary "Rosenheim Cops Backstage."

Despite his reduced physical presence on set, Müller remains an official member of the show's core cast. To accommodate his time in Vienna, the police work of his character will be shared with a familiar face. Actress Katharina Plank will take on a larger role, portraying police officer Pia Arnbruck more frequently to cover for Müller's absences.

Plank is no stranger to the fictional Bavarian police department, having made her debut during the show's 21st season in 2021. She has since appeared in 15 episodes, with her screen time expected to increase substantially under her expanded role. "We have already investigated together, and Kathi then takes over when I am in Vienna," Müller noted.

Viewers may barely notice the transition during certain sequences, as the production team occasionally utilizes telephone calls featuring Michi Mohr to keep the character involved in storylines without requiring the actor to be physically present on set. The series has maintained its Tuesday evening broadcast schedule, though it recently faced a brief scheduling interruption for special news coverage regarding the United States midterm elections.

Müller's schedule adjustment is part of a broader wave of cast transitions for "The Rosenheim Cops." The long-running program has recently announced several major departures, including Marisa Burger, who is set to make her final appearance as police secretary Miriam Stockl after portraying the character for 25 years. Additional exits include Christian K. Schaeffer, Isabel Mergl, and Alexander Duda, marking a significant period of change for the long-running television ensemble.