 Based on the children's novel by James Krüss, Ohrner played the titular role of Timm Thaler, a boy who trades his enchanting laughter to a wealthy Baron in exchange for the ability to win any bet he makes.Premiering on Christmas day 1979, the series became a hit with young audiences and launched 14-year-old Ohrner as a popular teen idol of the era.In January 1980, he followed up with a starring role in the miniseries "", playing the wizard as a boy.