SRF Launches New Crime Series 'Blind'
SRF has introduced its new crime series 'Blind', featuring actor Sven Schelker as a blind bartender. The production focused on achieving authenticity in the portrayal of the lead character.
Quick facts
- Sven Schelker plays the lead role of a blind bartender named Nathaniel.
- The production team sought a professional blind actor before casting Schelker.
- Schelker is a two-time Swiss Film Award winner, including for his 2026 role in 'Stiller'.
Why it matters
The focus on authenticity in casting and performance reflects a broader trend in Swiss media to better represent diverse experiences. By partnering with the Swiss Federation of the Blind and Visually Impaired, the production aims to avoid common tropes, though the success of this approach remains to be evaluated by the audience.
Swiss broadcaster SRF has debuted its new crime series titled Blind. The show features Basel-born actor Sven Schelker in the lead role of Nathaniel, a blind bartender navigating a complex narrative.
How was the lead role cast?
The production process for Blind involved a search for authenticity. The Zurich-based production company Zodiac Pictures, in collaboration with the Swiss Federation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (sbv), initially aimed to cast a professional blind actor for the role of Nathaniel. When that search did not result in a casting, the team selected Sven Schelker.
What measures were taken for authenticity?
To ensure the portrayal of a blind character was handled with care, the production provided Schelker with professional guidance. The actor was observed training with a white cane and specialized glasses in public spaces, such as the Bern train station, to better understand the sensory experience of his character.
Who is Sven Schelker?
Sven Schelker is a prominent Swiss actor known for his work in both theater and film. His career includes performances at the Thalia Theater in Hamburg and Theater Basel. He gained recognition for his role in the 2019 biopic Bruno Manser – Die Stimme des Regenwaldes and has received the Swiss Film Award twice, most recently in 2026 for his performance in Stiller.
Frequently asked questions
What is the new SRF series 'Blind' about?
The series is a crime drama centered on a character named Nathaniel, who works as a bartender. The show explores his life and experiences, with the production team placing a high priority on the authentic portrayal of his blindness.
Who plays the lead character in 'Blind'?
The lead role of Nathaniel is played by the Swiss actor Sven Schelker. He is an award-winning performer known for his work in theater and film, including his 2026 Swiss Film Award-winning role in the production 'Stiller'.
Was a blind actor considered for the role?
Yes. According to reports, the production company Zodiac Pictures and the Swiss Federation of the Blind and Visually Impaired initially attempted to find a professional blind actor for the role, but were unsuccessful in their search.
How did the actor prepare for the role?
Sven Schelker received professional support to ensure an authentic performance. This included practicing with a white cane and specialized glasses in public environments to experience the sensory challenges faced by individuals who are blind.
Is 'Blind' the only new series from SRF?
SRF is also managing other projects, including a new sitcom titled 'Unsere kleine Botschaft'. The broadcaster is currently navigating the balance between creating new content and maintaining the success of its previous long-running comedy hits.
Where can I watch the new SRF series?
The series is produced by SRF. Specific broadcast schedules or streaming availability details were not available at the time of writing, but viewers can typically find SRF programming on their official television channels and online streaming platforms.
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Last checked Oct 4, 2026 at 2:15 AM. Trends move fast, so details may change. How we work
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