German character actor, an ex-bank employee. On stage from 1910 despite lack of formal training. Performed primarily in Hamburg and Berlin during the 1910's and 20's. In films for almost half a century, beginning in 1916. Often played physicians, aristocrats, judicial figures or officers. Noted for strong performances in several East German Defa productions. Also provided the German dubbing voice for Claude Rains, Robert Taylor and Gig Young.

His activity in front of the camera decreased after the war but especially in the 50's he took part in great productions once more, among them "Das Beil von Wandsbek" (1951), "Der Untertan" (1951), "Canaris" (1954) and "Madeleine und der Legionär" (1958).