Merz gegen Merz

The series was created based on an idea by Ralf Husmann, known as the writer of Stromberg, who also served as the main author and contributed the screenplay for many episodes.

The lead roles of the married couple Anne and Erik Merz were played by Annette Frier and Christoph Maria Herbst.

The show was renewed for a second season before the first season had even aired, reflecting strong internal confidence from ZDF.

Filming for the first season began in October 2019, with the second season shot in time for an April 2020 broadcast and a third season filmed in spring 2021.

Despite ZDF announcing in December 2021 that there would be no continuation after the third season, a comeback was confirmed in March 2023 in the form of a 90-minute TV film.

The series was continued through several TV films: 'Merz gegen Merz – Hochzeiten' (2023), 'Merz gegen Merz – Geheimnisse' (2024), and 'Merz gegen Merz – Geständnisse' (announced for May 2026).

The show received largely positive reviews even before its release, with the portal DWDL.de calling it 'definitely the most promising comedy series relaunch by ZDF in a long time' and recommending it especially for married couples.

Reviewing the second season, quotenmeter.de praised Ralf Husmann's typical satirical, exaggerated yet warm-hearted style, noting the series masterfully finds comedy within tragedy.