Supporting actor of the 1930's, in cabaret and also on screen in comic roles. Served with an anti-aircraft unit in Norway after being conscripted and committed suicide when it was revealed that he had Jewish antecedents.
The actor Horst Birr belongs to the forgotten comedians whose destiny was sealed with his aversion to the National Socialists.
He had first successes as a comedian at different theaters and cabarets.
Birr was a member of the Nazi Party since October 1932 but didn't mention that he was Half-Jew.
He gained a foothold in the film business in 1934 and took part in many movies in the following years.
His popularity increased at the end of the 30's and he was active till to the beginning of the 40's.
There are different information about the death of Horst Birr. Among others his death is dated to 1943 and he should have committed suicide during his stay in Norway when it emerged that he was a Half-Jew or that he should be murdered by National Socialists in Norway.
Other sources say that he became unpopular by the National Socialists because of his critical cabaret programs and that the rulers let him arrest and that he was executed in 1944 (Gelsenzentrum).