Rudi Cerne: From Olympic Ice to Germany’s Most Trusted Crime Investigator
BERLIN, 25 February 2026 — Tonight, millions of viewers across Germany will tune into ZDF as Rudi Cerne presents the latest episode of Aktenzeichen XY… Ungelöst. For over two decades, Cerne has been the face of the nation’s most successful cold-case programme, bridging the gap between the criminal police (Kripo) and the public. However, before becoming a staple of investigative television, Cerne was a world-class athlete whose grace on the ice earned him international acclaim.
The February 2026 Broadcast: Current Cases
In today’s episode, airing 25 February 2026, Cerne presents seven unsolved cases. The broadcast highlights a series of sexual assaults in Hamburg and Neumünster occurring between 2020 and 2024, alongside the mysterious disappearance of a 71-year-old man from Düsseldorf. The programme also revisits the “Amy Lopez” cold case from Koblenz, following significant developments and a recent arrest more than 30 years after the American student was killed.
Early Life and Athletic Career
Born on 26 September 1958 in Wanne-Eickel, Rudi Cerne’s path was influenced early on by his father, a hobby figure skater. Cerne’s talent led him to the Herner EV club, where he trained under Günter Zöller. By the late 1970s, he had established himself as one of West Germany’s premier figure skaters.
Competitive Milestones
Cerne’s athletic career was defined by technical precision and consistency. After completing his Abitur in 1979 and serving as a temporary soldier (Zeitsoldat) until 1981, he reached the pinnacle of his sport in the mid-1980s.
| Year | Event / Achievement | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 1978 | German Figure Skating Championships | Gold (Champion) |
| 1980 | German Figure Skating Championships | Gold (Champion) |
| 1980 | Winter Olympics (Lake Placid) | 13th Place |
| 1984 | European Championships | Silver (Vice-Champion) |
| 1984 | Winter Olympics (Sarajevo) | 4th Place |
Transition to Journalism
Following his retirement from professional skating, Cerne studied Sport and Biology, though he did not complete his teaching degree, opting instead for a career in media. He joined ZDF as a sports journalist, covering major events including the Tour de France and various Olympic Games.
The “Aktenzeichen XY” Era
In 2002, Cerne took over the moderation of Aktenzeichen XY… Ungelöst, succeeding Eduard Zimmermann and Butz Peters. It was a significant shift from sports reporting to true crime. Cerne has since revealed that he initially hesitated to take the role, but was encouraged by German TV legend Frank Elstner to accept the position. Under his tenure, the show has maintained high clearance rates, often leading to breakthroughs in decades-old “cold cases.”
Personal Life and Legacy
Cerne remains deeply connected to his roots in the Ruhr area. Known for his calm and objective presenting style, he has become one of the most respected figures in German broadcasting. Beyond his crime-fighting persona, he continues to be involved in sports charity and remains a prominent ambassador for the “Aktion Mensch” lottery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When did Rudi Cerne start hosting Aktenzeichen XY?
Rudi Cerne has been the lead moderator of the ZDF programme since 2002.
Was Rudi Cerne an Olympic champion?
While he was a two-time German Champion and a European Silver Medalist (1984), his highest Olympic finish was 4th place at the 1984 Sarajevo Games.
Where was Rudi Cerne born?
He was born in Wanne-Eickel, which is now part of the city of Herne in North Rhine-Westphalia.
What cases are on Aktenzeichen XY today?
The 25 February 2026 episode features a sexual assault series in Hamburg, a missing person case from Düsseldorf, and updates on the Amy Lopez cold case from Koblenz.