Bulky character actor, often seen in villainous roles. Trained for the classical stage under the auspices of Gustav Gründgens at the Preußischen Staatstheater in Berlin, between 1938 and 1939. Long theatrical residencies in Berlin, Hamburg and, particularly, in Vienna (Burgtheater, 1940-49; Theater in der Josefstadt, 1957-86). Popular guest performer on television, regularly popping up in crime series and period dramas. Resided in Austria.