Tatort” icon Horst Lettenmayer: A life between luminaries and legends

Tatort” icon Horst Lettenmayer: A life between luminaries and legends

Horst Lettenmayer, whose face in the form of his striking eyes has been an iconic image of German television culture for almost 54 years, died at the age of 82. Anyone who regularly tunes in to “Tatort” will be familiar with the distinctive white crosshairs enclosing the left iris and the former actor’s legs running away across the shiny asphalt of the opening credits. This cultural heritage has more than just nostalgic value; it is a symbol of German television history.

A life in the shadow of the “crime scene”

Lettenmayer's life path is exemplary for many who have had a difficult time in acting. While his eyes remained unforgettable, his career as an actor was generally rather modest. He first got the chance in 1970, when the first “Tatort” was produced. At the time, he received a one-time payment of 400 German marks for his short but memorable performance, without being aware that these recordings would achieve cult status. “There was no contract, nothing,” he said looking back. The success of the format exceeded all expectations.

From acting to business management

Nevertheless, Lettenmayer soon realized that his passion lay less in acting and more in the design and distribution of lighting technology. He founded his own lighting company, which flourished after he accidentally received the order to develop a special picture lamp. “The patent on the lamp was a burner,” said his daughter Julia-Alina. Lettenmayer recently handed over the business to his daughter, but he was actively involved in the company until shortly before his death.

A worthy farewell

Horst Lettenmayer died on July 20th, and his daughter confirmed that he took part in the corporate operation until his last day. On the day of his death, he felt unwell and drove home, where his daughter found him lifeless in his bed. Julia-Alina emphasized that her father enjoyed his life, with “a lot of smoking and red wine here and there,” and that she keeps him in her heart in this sociable way. His funeral took place at Munich's North Cemetery on July 31, the day he would have celebrated his 83rd birthday.

Cultural heritage and commemoration

Lettenmayer's death is not only a reminder of the loss of an important figure on German television, but also of the change and stability in the television landscape. The “Tatort” series has evolved significantly since it was first recorded, but Lettenmayer’s image remains timelessly anchored in the minds of viewers. The opening credits continue to be watched across generations, a piece of history that not only entertains but also connects.

In memory of Horst Lettenmayer, the question remains what this means for the next generations of actors and producers and what new values ​​and traditions will emerge in the German television landscape. He leaves a legacy that extends far beyond television and continues to inspire.

dpa/jm