The Austrian town of Kuchl is experiencing a touch of Bavaria thanks to the filming of the popular German crime series “Alpentod.” A preview of the reveal’s second season, starring Veronica Ferres, was held at the Hallein City Cinema on March 4, 2026, drawing local officials and enthusiastic fans. The series, known for its picturesque Alpine settings, has brought a significant boost to tourism in the region, with filming locations spanning multiple towns and scenic spots in both Austria, and Germany.
The upcoming season of “Alpentod” promises suspense and intrigue, centering around a fresh case involving a body discovered in a burned-down wooden house. Forensic archaeologist Dr. Marie Sonnleitner, Bavarian Chief Inspector Birgit Reincke, and her colleague Jonas Becker will lead the investigation, facing danger along the way. The third film, titled “Tiefe Schluchten” (“Deep Gorges”), is scheduled to air on ServusTV on March 14 at 8:15 PM and on RTL on March 17 at 8:15 PM, with simultaneous streaming available on RTL+. The fourth installment, “Im ewigen Eis” (“In the Eternal Ice”), will follow a week later on the same channels and streaming platform.
The premiere event in Hallein drew a crowd eager for a first look at the new episodes. Veronica Ferres, a celebrated actress, was greeted with applause upon her arrival, taking a seat in the front row. Hannes M. Schalle, owner of Moonlake Entertainment, hosted the event, emphasizing the positive impact of film and television productions on local tourism. “We filmed in Kuchl, Hallein, Grödig, on the Dachstein, in the Wiestal, Bluntautal, on the Untersberg, in the Almbachklamm, the Aigner Klamm, in the city of Salzburg and, and, and,” Schalle stated, noting the reach of these locations to a potential audience of millions. He also revealed that the series was the most-streamed program on RTL+, according to reports.
From Laundry Concerns to Local Pride
Schalle recalled a time when film crews were met with apprehension by locals, with residents reportedly hiding their laundry. “Twenty years ago, it used to be: ‘Huch! The filmmakers are coming, hide the laundry!’” he joked. Today, the sentiment has shifted, with local officials embracing the economic and cultural benefits of filming. Alexander Stangassinger, the mayor of Hallein, expressed his honor and joy at hosting international artists and productions. Thomas Freylinger, the mayor of Kuchl, highlighted the unique experience for the town’s residents, noting the playful challenge of explaining the fictional transformation of Kuchl into a Bavarian community.
“I think the only surprising thing was that we are Bavarian in the film,” Freylinger explained. “It was a bit of a challenge to explain that the Bavarian flag is hanging in front of the parish church, which is actually the town hall, or that a disused bank suddenly becomes a hair salon. That caused some resistance, but it brought everyone to the town to see it for themselves.” He added, “As a musician who has worked for the festival for a long time and still does, it is something special to be able to make a production in the middle of a place. When you see something being created, how much perform goes into it.”
“Maischling”: Kuchl’s Bavarian Alter Ego
For the purposes of the show, Kuchl has been playfully rebranded as “Maischling,” complete with a fictional town sign proclaiming it “Aus gutem Holz geschnitzt” (“Made of good wood”). Mayor Freylinger recounted being asked if the Bavarian Prime Minister was visiting due to the presence of the Bavarian flag, responding with a lighthearted, “We have conquered Bavaria.” He emphasized the convenience of Kuchl as a filming location, noting its compact size and lack of through traffic.
The production has also been recognized for its commitment to fair filmmaking practices. Producers Hanna V. Kienbaum (Warner Bros.) and Brigitte Wettstein (Moonlake Entertainment) recently received the Fair-Film-Award at the Berlinale for the new “Alpentod” productions. The award, presented by an initiative of 30 organizations, recognizes films that prioritize fair treatment of staff, ecological responsibility, sustainability, and respectful engagement with filming locations. According to TheTVDB.com, the series is currently in production with new episodes expected to continue airing.
Veronica Ferres expressed gratitude to the entire team, stating, “You are nothing alone and everything in a team.” She also spoke positively about the dynamic between the three main characters, describing their complex relationship as one of “hate and love.” Following the preview, Ferres took time to pose for selfies and sign autographs for students from the Kuchl Middle School and the wife of Mayor Stangassinger, a dedicated fan.
“Alpentod” is a co-production of Warner Bros. International Television Production Germany on behalf of RTL and ServusTV, with Moonlake Entertainment serving as the executive service production company. The series receives funding from FISA+, Film in Austria (ABA), and the Film Funding of the State of Salzburg. While a third season has not been officially confirmed, reports suggest that scripts are already in development, a prospect that would undoubtedly be welcomed by the local community.
The success of “Alpentod” demonstrates the growing synergy between film production and regional tourism, showcasing the beauty of the Austrian and Bavarian landscapes to a wide audience. As the series continues to evolve, it promises to deliver compelling crime stories and further solidify its place as a popular fixture on German-language television. Stay tuned for updates on the future of “Alpentod” and its continued impact on the region.
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