Marco Girnth leaves SOKO Leipzig: An emotional farewell!
Marco Girnth is leaving the series “SOKO Leipzig” at the age of 55 after over 500 episodes. A farewell to his boss Ina Zimmermann.

Marco Girnth leaves SOKO Leipzig: An emotional farewell!
What an era is now coming to an end: Marco Girnth has announced his departure from the popular series “SOKO Leipzig”. The 55-year-old, who has been inextricably linked to the role of Chief Detective Jan Maybach since the first episode “Escape According to Timetable” in January 2001, is drawing a line in the sand after filming over 500 episodes. The reason for his departure is of a very pragmatic nature: Girnth wants to initiate changes in his life and is looking for new challenges. As Brisant reports, he will still be seen in the 26th season because the new episodes are already in the can.
Particularly painful for Girnth is saying goodbye to his colleague and mentor, Chief Detective Ina Zimmermann – played by Melanie Marschke. “I will miss her especially,” admits Girnth. The two of them formed a strong bond and there was always a good atmosphere between them without any stress or misunderstandings. Zimmermann, who is the only woman on the team, was not only a colleague for him, but also a friend and a helpline.
The development of “SOKO Leipzig”
“SOKO Leipzig” has become one of the most successful crime series on German television since its premiere in 2001. In 2003/2004 the series was moved from the early evening broadcast to prime time and regularly delights more than four million viewers. The stories surrounding the team of investigators, to which Girnth as Jan Maybach belongs, are diverse and have evolved over the years. Particularly worth mentioning is the development of Ina Zimmermann, who was promoted to boss in episode 327 and thus plays a key role within the team. The peculiarities of its characters, such as the failed relationship with Milo Janssen or the challenges of being a single mother, make the series tangible and exciting for the audience, as well Spiegel states.
The chemistry in the team is a central point that contributes to the popularity of the series. Jochen Bartsch as Hajo Trautzschke, who is retiring, has handed over the boss by law, and a new generation of investigators has also found their place. In addition to Kim Nowak, who becomes more complex in season 23 with her complicated relationship with her father and her dance coach Rico, this also includes Moritz Brenner, who joins SOKO because of a criminal transfer.
A look into the future
For Marco Girnth, this is the end of an important phase in his life. He has thrilled audiences with his playing and his presence for many years. The question remains how the series will develop without him; Fans are hoping for exciting stories and new twists in the classic “SOKO” style. However, Girnth's legacy remains unforgotten through the many episodes he filled. His successors will certainly be guided by his style of presentation, because the bar is high.
His farewell marks the end of an era, but an exciting future awaits the “SOKO Leipzig” team and viewers with new developments and characters. Life changes are also coming for Girnth, and we are excited to see what new paths he will take. The world of “SOKO Leipzig” will no longer be the same without him.