Tall, distinguished German actor, director and writer, on stage in Hamburg from 1930. Member of the ensemble of the Deutsches Theater Berlin (1936-41), the Vienna Theater in der Josefstadt (1941-43) and the Staatstheater Berlin under Gustav Gruendgens. Specialised as actor in sophisticated or romantic comedy. Increasingly active as director and writer for cabaret, theatre and screen after World War II, possibly best known for his Golden Globe-winning
The Good Soldier Schweik (1960).