Serious-looking character actor, prolific in classic German films of the 1920's and 30's. He was born and brought up in China, taking part in suppressing the 1900 Boxer Uprising. Before becoming an actor, he also worked as a lumberjack in Florida. During the 1920's, he performed on the Berlin stage under the auspices of Max Reinhardt. On screen he is best remembered for his performance in Murnau's "Nosferatu" and as a member of the punch bowl circle in "Die Feuerzangenbowle" (1944).