"Remembering The Legend: Rolf Schimpf, 'The Old Fox' Star"
- Reminder: "The Old Man" TV Show's Leading Actor Highlighted by ZDF
Iconic German actor Rolf Schimpf (1924-2025) bid farewell at the age of 100, passing away last Saturday in a care home in Munich. As reported by BR, the beloved television persona was best known for his performance as Chief Inspector Leo Kress in the ZDF crime series "The Old Fox" (Der Alte), from 1986 to 2007.
"The Old Fox" Remembers Its Star
ZDF program director Nadine Bilke shared heartfelt words, stating, "Schimpf's portrayal of the tenacious, clever, and empathetic investigator Leo Kress significantly contributed to the series' success and set standards as an audience favorite." She added, "We are grateful for his remarkable impact on ZDF television history and mourn the loss of a great actor and a unique individual."
Behind the Camera
Schimpf began his career in the 50s, performing at the Luzern city theatre, Bern city theatre, Württembergischen Staatstheater in Stuttgart, and the Hamburger Kammerspielen[1]. His television debut came in the late 50s, with roles in series like "SOKO 5113" (1968–1978) and "Meine Tochter – Unser Fräulein Doktor" (1970)[1][3].
Before joining "The Old Fox," Schimpf gained popularity with a lead role in the series "Mensch Bachmann" in 1984, a production by Helmut Ringelmann, who would help him secure the role of Leo Kress[2][3]. Schimpf's career extended to various other platforms, including theatre performances, dubbing roles, and guest appearances in series such as "Derrick," "SOKO Munich," and "Tatort" films.
Farewell from the "Old Fox" Team
Charles M. Huber, who played Criminal Commissioner Henry Johnson, spoke fondly of Schimpf, "He was simply a good person with a great character. Our collaboration was not just a job, it was an experience. We were simply a fantastic team." Actor Thomas Heinze, who currently plays Chief Inspector Caspar Bergmann in "The Old Fox," paid tribute on Instagram, "Safe journey, dear Rolf! It was a pleasure to meet you. And it is an honor to carry on your legacy."
Beyond "The Old Fox"
Schimpf's career spanned several decades, with notable appearances in series like "Ida Rogalski" (1970) and "Die Protokolle des Herrn M." (1979), as well as popular medical series "The Black Forest Clinic" (1986)[1]. He even lent his voice to actor Bela Lugosi in various films[1].
In remembering Rolf Schimpf, we honor a talented performer whose impact resonates deeply within the realm of German entertainment. His legacy as Leo Kress in "The Old Fox" not only defined his career but left an indelible mark on ZDF television history. Rest in peace, dear Rolf. You will be missed, but never forgotten.
- Rolf Schimpf
- ZDF
- The Old Fox
- Leo Kress
- BR
- Munich
- Nadine Bilke
- Career Overview
- Theatre Career
- Early Television Roles
- Notable Roles Beyond "The Old Fox"
- Dubbing
- I'm not going to lie, Rolf Schimpf was more than just an actor to us; he was a friend, a colleague, and an inspiration.
- In 2025, ZDF will remember its star, Rolf Schimpf, who portrayed the iconic role of Inspector Leo Kress in "The Old Fox" (Der Alte), a role that started in 1986 and lasted for over two decades.
- Before gaining fame as Leo Kress, Rolf Schimpf had a successful theatre career, performing in various theatres such as the Luzern city theatre, and later, he landed key roles in television series like 'Mensch Bachmann' in 1984.
