Rolf Schimpf, celebrated for his iconic role as Chief Inspector Leo Kress in ‘Der Alte’, retired after 21 years on screen. Originally aspiring to be a doctor, he found his passion for acting post-World War II. Schimpf’s career spanned over 120 productions, but personal challenges arose after his wife Ilse’s dementia diagnosis and her passing in 2015. Now at 100, he faces health struggles and financial difficulties while leaving an indelible mark on television history.
Rolf Schimpf: A Legendary Career in Television
Rolf Schimpf, fondly remembered as the Old Man, spent an impressive 21 years portraying Chief Inspector Leo Kress in the beloved ZDF series ‘Der Alte’. After an incredible 222 episodes, the time came for Leo Kress to retire at the age of 65, while Schimpf himself was already 83. The character of Leo Kress was so intertwined with Schimpf’s identity that it seemed he had become a living embodiment of his on-screen persona. Today, on November 14, we celebrate Rolf Schimpf’s remarkable milestone of turning 100 years old.
A Journey from Medicine to Acting
Interestingly, Rolf originally aspired to become a doctor. However, after failing to secure a spot in medical school, he found his true calling in the world of theater following World War II and a brief stint in commercial training at a vinegar company. “That was it, I knew where I belonged,” he later reflected. He honed his craft at an acting school in Stuttgart and graced the stages of prestigious venues like the Württemberg State Theater Stuttgart and Hamburg Kammerspiele.
Schimpf’s first significant role came in 1983 with the satirical TV film ‘Der Sheriff von Linsenbach’. His calm and thoughtful demeanor caught the eye of producer Helmut Ringelmann, leading to his title role in the ZDF miniseries ‘Mensch Bachmann’ at the age of 60. Just two years later, he was cast as the lead in ‘Der Alte’, where he portrayed a fatherly policeman, reflecting his own personality.
“I wanted to be as I am,” Schimpf shared in a 2007 interview, explaining that he drew from his own experiences and interactions to shape his character. He regarded his decades-long portrayal of Leo Kress as a harmonious and fulfilling chapter in his life. Despite surpassing the typical retirement age for police officers, Schimpf’s dedication to his role was apparent until he decided to step down in 2006.
His departure marked a poignant moment for both fans and the network, as ZDF program director Thomas Bellut expressed a sense of loss at the changing face of ‘Der Alte’. Schimpf’s legacy continued through the series, with successors including Walter Kreye and Jan-Gregor Kremp.
After his retirement, Rolf Schimpf made a brief return in 2009 as the retired Leo Kress in an episode titled ‘Taximörder’. Following a prolific career with over 120 films and TV productions, he retired completely in 2010 and moved to a senior residence in Munich with his second wife, actress Ilse Zielstorff.
However, life took a difficult turn as his wife battled dementia, leading to challenging decisions about her care. Rolf’s emotional struggles were captured in various interviews, where he candidly shared the rollercoaster of emotions he faced while supporting her during this trying time.
Ilse Zielstorff passed away in 2015, leaving a profound impact on Schimpf, who continues to feel the weight of her absence. As he marked his 95th birthday, he expressed how much he misses her, while also confronting his own health challenges.
In 2023, due to financial constraints, Schimpf had to leave his residence of 13 years, seeking a more affordable home. Sadly, his condition has deteriorated, leading to a diagnosis of dementia. Despite these challenges, Rolf Schimpf’s remarkable life and career leave a lasting legacy in the world of television.