The Rosenheim Cops find themselves embroiled in a case far removed from their usual Bavarian quaintness,
stumbling into the high-stakes world of antique appraisal and the seemingly placid set of “Bares für Rares.”
The episode, titled “Ärger bei “Bares für Rares”: Moderator Horst Lichter wütet – “Immer wieder erschreckend,” centers around a seemingly innocuous antique brought to the show by a seemingly harmless individual. However, this seemingly ordinary object triggers a chain of events that throws the entire production into chaos, leaving even the unflappable Horst Lichter visibly shaken.
The antique in question— initially presented as a commonplace piece— turns out to be far more significant than initially appraised. Its history is far darker and more complex than anyone anticipated, revealing a connection to a long-unsolved crime, specifically a series of art heists that have plagued Bavaria for years. The episode masterfully weaves the “Bares für Rares” setting with the ongoing Rosenheim police investigation. We see the familiar faces of the Rosenheim team navigating the unfamiliar territory of a television studio, complete with its own set of personalities and backstage drama.
The “erschreckend” aspect Lichter refers to stems not only from the revelation of the antique’s true nature but also from the involvement of a key figure within the “Bares für Rares” team itself. This individual, initially viewed as a respected and trusted member of the production, is subtly revealed to be a crucial link in the criminal network behind the art thefts. Their actions throughout the episode gradually unravel, revealing their duplicity and their intricate plan to use the show as a means of laundering the stolen goods.
The tension builds as the Rosenheim Cops, utilizing their keen observation skills, piece together the evidence, navigating the increasingly tense atmosphere of the “Bares für Rares” set. Horst Lichter’s character arc within the episode is particularly compelling. His initial bewilderment at the unfolding events gradually shifts to outrage and determination to assist the police in bringing the culprits to justice. He is far from a passive bystander; he actively participates in the investigation, providing crucial insights and information gleaned from his intimate knowledge of the show’s inner workings and participants. His famous good humor is replaced by a palpable anger fueled by a sense of betrayal and a growing understanding of the scale of the criminal enterprise.
The climax of the episode sees a dramatic confrontation on the “Bares für Rares” set, as the police move to apprehend the culprit(s) amidst the chaos of a live taping. The episode ends with a satisfying resolution, but not without lingering questions and a palpable sense of unease surrounding the seemingly harmless world of antique collecting. The final scene focuses on Lichter expressing his concern about the vulnerability of such high-profile events to infiltration by criminal organizations, leading him to reflect on the need for greater security measures, all while still showcasing his unwavering commitment to the honest appraisal of treasured artifacts.