Incisive, debonair German supporting actor of the 1930's and 40's, often in authoritarian roles in prestige Ufa productions. Appeared in four films with star actress Zarah Leander.
From 1950 on he worked in Hamburg as a producer of documentaries.
The actor Karl Martell made his film debut already at the age of 14 with "Das grosse Geheimnis" (1920).
His activity in the film business dropped off after the war, and in 1962 he retired from the film business.
Totally forgotten , Karl Martell died alone and in total indifference in 1966.
From the middle of the 30's he appeared regular in front of the camera and became a popular support actor.