German rapper Haftbefehl, whose real name is Aykut Anhan, revealed on his podcast a significant relapse into cocaine use shortly after the completion of filming for his documentary on The episode occurred in mid-2025, sending the artist into a coma that required urgent medical intervention. The production, titled “Babo: Die Haftbefehl-Story”, was released in October 2025 and highlighted his personal and professional trajectory, including challenges with illicit substances. According to reports from the musician himself, his return to drug use was driven by traumatic personal events, such as the loss of a close friend.
The relapse occurred at a time when Haftbefehl was trying to consolidate a phase of recovery, but external factors worsened his condition. Ele consumed high amounts of cocaine, cannabis and alcohol, which culminated in a health crisis in July 2025. Autoridades doctors confirmed that the coma was a direct result of substance abuse, and the rapper underwent a period of intensive treatment to stabilize. Essa’s public admission came to light in the fifth episode of the podcast “Nina & Aykut”, broadcast on RTL+, where the artist expressed regret for deviating from his path of sobriety.
The Netflix documentary was intended to mark the end of a vicious cycle in Haftbefehl’s life, but the opposite happened behind the scenes. The 40-year-old rapper detailed how years of consumption destroyed parts of his nasal structure, requiring reconstructive surgery in January 2026. Essa surgical intervention was necessary to correct accumulated damage, which became visible and generated speculation among fans. Agora, after a six-week detox program at a specialized clinic at Alemanha, Haftbefehl claims to be in a phase of stability, focusing on future projects in music.
Details of the relapse revealed on the podcast
Haftbefehl described on the podcast how the process of filming the documentary left him vulnerable to old habits. Ele mentioned that, immediately after finishing recording, he began to consume cocaine again intensely, mixing it with other substances. Essa combination led to a physical collapse that put him in a coma for several days. Médicos warned of permanent health risks, including irreversible damage to the nervous system.
The artist also highlighted the emotional impact of the death of his mentor and friend Xatar, who passed away in May 2025 in Colônia. The abrupt loss contributed to the worsening of the relapse, as Xatar was a central figure in his support network in the musical world. Investigadores concluded that there was no crime involved in the death, but the episode left Haftbefehl shaken, intensifying his use of drugs as a coping mechanism.
Impact of the documentary on the rapper’s career
The series “Babo: Die Haftbefehl-Story” achieved great impact by exposing intimate details of Haftbefehl’s life, including his struggle with addiction. Lançada in October 2025, production quickly climbed the rankings from Netflix in Alemanha and other European countries. Críticos praised the rapper’s honesty in addressing topics such as chemical dependency and pressure from the music industry. However, behind-the-scenes footage revealed that the stress of filming may have been a trigger for the relapse.
Fans reacted with surprise to the public admission, but many expressed support on social media. Haftbefehl used digital platforms to share messages of gratitude after his recovery. Ele plans a return to the stage in 2026, with confirmed performances at festivals and arenas. Essa comeback phase includes shows in Frankfurt, Düsseldorf and Berlim, scheduled for September and October.
The documentary also brought family issues to light, with statements from his wife Nina about the challenges of living with her husband’s artistic and personal side. Ela emphasized the distinction between the common man and the public persona, reinforcing the need for ongoing support. Haftbefehl credited his family with part of his motivation to seek treatment after his coma.
Nasal surgery and physical consequences of addiction
Years of cocaine use caused the destruction of Haftbefehl’s nasal septum, resulting in an altered appearance that sparked rumors. Surgery carried out in January 2026 reconstructed the structure, using advanced techniques to restore functionality and aesthetics. Médicos specialists in otorhinolaryngology confirmed that similar damage is common in cases of prolonged abuse of inhaled substances.
The procedure lasted several hours and required a post-operative recovery period. Haftbefehl reported intense pain and restrictions in daily activities during the following weeks. Essa intervention not only corrected the physical problem, but also served as a symbolic milestone in his sobriety journey. Ele now warns about the dangers of addiction to interviews and online posts.
Public health experts highlight that cases like Haftbefehl illustrate the risks of relapse in drug addicts. Programas of rehabilitation emphasize the importance of ongoing therapy and support networks. The rapper attended sessions at a clinic in Villingen-Schwenningen, where he learned strategies for dealing with stressors.
The July 2025 coma was a turning point, with Haftbefehl being hospitalized in serious condition. Equipes doctors monitored his vital signs and administered detoxification treatments. Após the episode, he underwent psychological evaluations to identify emotional triggers, such as mourning for Xatar.
Death of Xatar and influence on the musical world
Xatar, whose real name was Giwar Hajabi, passed away at the age of 43 in May 2025, in his apartment in Colônia. The public prosecutor closed the investigations in September 2025, ruling out any external involvement. The exact cause of death was not disclosed to protect the family’s privacy, but initial speculation was refuted.
Haftbefehl described Xatar as his best friend in the music industry, someone who guided him through difficult times. The loss shook not just the rapper, but the entire German rap scene. Xatar was known for his path of overcoming, having founded music labels and collaborated with emerging artists. Seu legacy includes influential albums and contributions to the urban scene.
Plans to return to the stage in 2026
Haftbefehl confirmed his participation as a main attraction at the World Club Dome festival, in Frankfurt, scheduled for 2026. The event brings together international names in electronic music and rap, and the rapper plans to present new and classic tracks. Essa performance marks his first big show after recovery, with expectations of maximum capacity.
Additionally, arena tours are scheduled for September and October 2026, including performances in Düsseldorf and Berlim. Tickets went on sale in February 2026, with high demand recorded. Haftbefehl intends to incorporate elements of his personal story into the presentations, promoting messages of resilience.
The rapper will also take part in a memorial concert in honor of Xatar, scheduled for May 7, 2026 at Lanxess Arena, at Colônia. The event will bring together German rap artists to celebrate the legacy of Xatar, with proceeds aimed at addiction prevention causes. Haftbefehl plans a special performance, honoring their deceased friend.
Memorial organizers emphasize the importance of discussing mental health in the artistic world. Convidados include rappers and producers who have collaborated with Xatar over the years. The show aims to not only entertain, but educate about the dangers of stress in the industry.
Reflections on sobriety and family support
Haftbefehl emphasized his wife Nina’s crucial role in his recovery, highlighting candid conversations on the podcast. Ela expressed love for the man behind the fame, but acknowledged the challenges posed by the artistic persona. The couple openly discusses topics such as dependence and family balance, serving as an example for others.
The family provided support during treatment, with regular visits to the clinic. Haftbefehl credited this support as a decisive factor in overcoming the relapse. Ele now prioritizes healthy routines, including exercise and therapy, to maintain the stability achieved.
Public approach to chemical dependency
Haftbefehl’s admission to the podcast encouraged discussions about addiction in German society. Especialistas in mental health applaud transparency, which can encourage others to seek help. Campanhas anti-drug campaigns gained visibility with the case, promoting accessible rehabilitation resources.
Organizations like Cruz Vermelha Alemã offer programs similar to what the rapper used, focusing on detox and relapse prevention. Estatísticas indicate that relapses occur in up to 60% of cases of chemical dependency, reinforcing the need for continuous support.
Haftbefehl plans to use her platform for advocacy by participating in panels and events about mental health. Sua story inspires young artists to prioritize well-being over professional pressure.
Xatar’s legacy in German rap
Xatar founded the music label Alles or Nix, boosting the careers of emerging rappers on Alemanha. Seus albums, such as “Baba aller Babas”, mixed cultural influences and personal narratives. His early death left a vacuum in the scene, but his impact persists through posthumous collaborations.
Artists like Haftbefehl continue to pay homage to Xatar in lyrics and shows, preserving his memory. The May 2026 memorial will serve as a platform to unite the community around his positive legacy.
