Austrian movie stars born in 1910
Here are 6 famous actors from Austria were born in 1910:
John Banner
John Banner (January 28, 1910 Vienna-January 28, 1973 Vienna) also known as Johann Banner was an Austrian actor.
He is best known for his role as Sergeant Schultz in the television series Hogan's Heroes, which aired from 1965 to 1971. Banner began his career in Austria and later moved to the United States, where he appeared in several films and television shows. Despite being Jewish, Banner served in the German army during World War II, which led to controversy after Hogan's Heroes became popular. Outside of his acting work, Banner was also an accomplished artist and sculptor. He died of an abdominal hemorrhage on his 63rd birthday.
Banner was born to Jewish parents in Vienna and grew up speaking German, which later helped him play his most famous role. In 1938, he fled Austria and immigrated to the United States to escape the Nazi regime. When he arrived in America, he began working as a janitor in a hotel for $8 a week. Eventually, he was able to make connections in Hollywood and landed his first film role in the 1941 movie "Unholy Partners".
Banner's appearance on Hogan's Heroes caused controversy due to his history with the Nazi army. However, Banner believed that his service in the German army was a way to protect his family from the dangers of the Nazi regime. He never spoke about his military service publicly, and it wasn't until after his death that his family confirmed his Jewish heritage.
In addition to acting, Banner was also a talented artist and sculptor. He studied art in Vienna before pursuing his acting career and continued to paint and sculpt throughout his life. Some of his artwork was even featured in the television series Hogan's Heroes.
Despite the controversy surrounding his portrayal of Sergeant Schultz, Banner's performance was beloved by many fans. After his death, a monument in his honor was erected near the town of his birth in Austria.
Banner's acting career spanned over two decades, during which he appeared in a number of films and television shows. Some of his notable film credits include "The Good Fairy" (1935), "Escape in the Desert" (1945), "The Emperor Waltz" (1948), and "The Tin Star" (1957). In addition, he also made guest appearances on popular television shows such as "The Jack Benny Program" and "The Lucy Show."
After the cancellation of Hogan's Heroes, Banner continued to work in the entertainment industry. He appeared in several more films and television shows, including "The African Queen" (1951), "The Bob Cummings Show" (1955-1959), and "The Danny Thomas Show" (1961-1965).
Banner was married to his wife, Christine, for 22 years until his death in 1973. They had one daughter together. In addition to his legacy as an actor, Banner's artwork continues to be displayed and celebrated today.
Gustav Lantschner
Gustav Lantschner (August 12, 1910 Innsbruck-March 19, 2011 Krailling) also known as Guzzi Lantschner was an Austrian cinematographer, actor, film director, screenwriter and alpine skier.
Lantschner was a pioneer of skiing and ski film making, his contribution to the growth of the ski industry in Austria and Europe is significant. He began his skiing career early and was a member of the Austrian national ski team. In 1931, he became the Austrian downhill champion, and in 1934, he participated in the world championships held in St. Moritz.
Lantschner's passion for skiing naturally led him to the film industry where he started his journey as a cameraman. His cinematic work includes movies such as "Blitzhochzeit" (1942), "Jugendliebe" (1943), and "Familie Schimek" (1957). He was particularly known for his cinematography in Alfred Hitchcock's "The Birds" (1963), where he was the second unit director of photography.
Lantschner was a lifelong advocate of skiing and the environment, and he even founded the Guzzi-Lantschner-Foundation for environmental protection. He was a beloved figure in Austria, and his passion for skiing and the mountains continued well into his 90s. He passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 19, 2011, at the age of 100.
Aside from being a successful ski racer and cinematographer, Gustav Lantschner was also an actor and film director. He starred in a number of films, including "Ein Mann geht durch die Wand" (1959) and "Zwei Münchner in Hamburg" (1989). He also directed several documentaries and short films about skiing and the mountains, including "Weiße Wahrheit" (1953) and "Hausberg" (1955).
In addition to his film and skiing careers, Lantschner was a dedicated environmentalist. He was a vocal advocate for the protection of Austria's mountains and forests, and his foundation supported conservation efforts in the country. Lantschner received numerous honors and awards for his contributions to the skiing industry and the environment, including the Golden Medal of Honor from the city of Innsbruck and the Great Gold Medal for Services to the Republic of Austria.
Throughout his long and multifaceted career, Gustav Lantschner left an indelible mark on the worlds of skiing and film. His legacy lives on through his many films and his tireless advocacy for environmental conservation.
Lantschner's life and career were marked by a deep love and appreciation for the mountains. In addition to his work as a filmmaker and skier, he was also an accomplished writer and photographer, publishing several books about his experiences in the mountains. He believed that skiing was not just a sport, but a way of life, and he felt that the mountains held a special spiritual significance that deserved respect and protection.
In his later years, Lantschner became a beloved figure in the skiing community, known for his warm personality, his enthusiasm for the sport, and his inspiring energy. He continued to ski well into his 90s, often taking to the slopes with friends and fellow enthusiasts.
With his passing, Lantschner left behind a rich legacy of cinematic achievement and environmental advocacy, as well as a deep appreciation for the natural world and the power of the human spirit. His contributions to the worlds of skiing and film will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
Walter Surovy
Walter Surovy (May 28, 1910 Vienna-November 4, 2001 Manhattan) also known as Walter Molnar or Walter Szurovy was an Austrian actor and talent manager. His child is called Nicolas Surovy.
Surovy began his acting career in Vienna before fleeing to the United States to escape Nazi persecution. He continued to act in Hollywood films and on Broadway, appearing in productions such as "The Sound of Music" and "Fiddler on the Roof." Later in his career, Surovy became a talent manager, representing actors such as Dustin Hoffman and Faye Dunaway. He also founded the Walter Surovy Company, which provided training and representation to aspiring actors. Surovy passed away in Manhattan at the age of 91.
In addition to his successful career in entertainment, Surovy was also known for his philanthropy. He was a supporter of various charities, particularly those focused on helping children and refugees. Surovy was also an avid collector of art and antiques, and his personal collection was sold off after his death. He was married twice, and his second wife was actress Diana Douglas, with whom he remained married until her death in 2015. Their son, Nicolas Surovy, followed in his father's footsteps and became an actor as well. Walter Surovy left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry, and his contributions to the arts and charitable causes continue to be remembered today.
Surovy was born as Walter Molnár in Vienna, Austria in 1910. He grew up in a Jewish family, and his father was a successful businessman. Despite his family's wealth, Surovy faced anti-Semitic discrimination throughout his youth. He began acting in local theater productions as a teenager, and he quickly developed a passion for performing.
In 1938, Surovy fled Austria as the Nazi regime began its persecution of Jews. He traveled to America and settled in New York City, where he continued to act in theater productions. He changed his surname from Molnár to Szurovy to avoid confusion with the famous Hungarian playwright Ferenc Molnár.
Surovy's talent and charisma quickly caught the attention of Hollywood producers, and he was soon cast in several films. He appeared in supporting roles in movies such as "The Song of Bernadette" and "The Jolson Story." Surovy also continued to act on Broadway, starring in productions such as "The Sound of Music" and "Fiddler on the Roof" in the 1960s.
In the 1970s, Surovy shifted his focus to talent management, starting his own company to help actors navigate the industry. He quickly gained a reputation as a skilled and ethical agent, and he represented top names in Hollywood such as Dustin Hoffman, Faye Dunaway, and Barbra Streisand.
Surovy's generosity and compassion were well-known in Hollywood circles. He donated generously to various charities, including those focused on helping children and refugees. Surovy was also a patron of the arts, and he amassed a substantial collection of art and antiques over the years.
Despite his many accomplishments, Surovy remained humble and grounded throughout his life. He was devoted to his family and friends, and he often used his wealth and influence to help others. Surovy passed away in Manhattan in 2001, leaving behind a rich legacy of compassionate and ethical leadership in the entertainment industry.
Hans Ernst Jäger
Hans Ernst Jäger (January 1, 1910 Vienna-August 15, 1973 Munich) also known as Hanns Ernst Jaeger, H.E. Jäger, Hanns-Ernst Jäger or Hanns Ernst Jäger was an Austrian actor.
He was best known for his work in German and Austrian films during the 1930s and 1940s. Jäger began his acting career on the stage in Vienna before transitioning to film in the early 1930s. He appeared in over 70 films and was a popular leading man among German-speaking audiences. However, due to his Nazi sympathies, Jäger's career suffered in the post-war period and he struggled to find work in the German film industry. In the 1950s, he moved to South America where he continued acting in films and television until his death. In addition to his acting work, Jäger was also a published author and wrote several books on the craft of acting.
Jäger was born to a wealthy family in Vienna and was educated at a boarding school in Germany. After completing his studies, he returned to Vienna and began working as a stage actor in small theaters. He gained attention for his performances in plays by notable playwrights such as Shakespeare and Molière.
In 1933, Jäger made his film debut in the Austrian film "Kaiserwalzer." He quickly became a popular leading man, appearing in romantic comedies and dramas. Jäger was also known for his roles in historical epics such as "Prince Eugene" and "Das Herz der Königin" (The Queen's Heart).
During World War II, Jäger's career thrived under the Nazi regime. He appeared in propaganda films and was a member of the Nazi party. After the war, Jäger was interned by the British authorities and his Nazi affiliations led to him being ostracized by many in the film industry. Despite his efforts to distance himself from his past, Jäger struggled to find work in Germany and eventually relocated to South America, where he continued acting in films and television until his death in 1973.
Jäger's legacy remains controversial due to his association with the Nazi party. However, his contributions to the German and Austrian film industries during the 1930s and 1940s are still celebrated today.
In addition to his film work, Jäger was also an accomplished stage actor and appeared in numerous theater productions in both Germany and Austria. He was particularly known for his performances in classic plays, including several Shakespearean roles such as Hamlet and Macbeth. Jäger was also a talented writer and wrote several plays, as well as several books on acting and the theater.
Jäger's personal life was marked by tragedy. He was married three times, with his second wife dying in childbirth and his third wife committing suicide. Jäger himself struggled with alcoholism and depression throughout his life.
Despite the controversy surrounding his Nazi affiliations, Jäger's acting talent and legacy continue to be remembered by film historians and enthusiasts today.
Otto Ambros
Otto Ambros (May 15, 1910 Klosterneuburg-February 21, 1979 Vienna) was an Austrian actor and film director.
Otto Ambros' acting career began in the late 1930s, and he went on to appear in over 30 films. He often played supporting roles and was known for his versatility in portraying both dramatic and comedic characters. In the 1950s, he began directing films, including the critically acclaimed "Der Teufel führt Regie" (The Devil Directs). Ambros was also a successful theater director and worked with notable companies such as the Burgtheater in Vienna. He continued to direct and act in films and theater productions throughout his career, earning several awards for his work, including the Austrian Cross of Honor for Science and Art.
In addition to his successful career in film and theater, Otto Ambros was also a talented painter and writer. He wrote and illustrated several books, including children's books and poetry collections. Ambros' artistic talents extended to music as well, and he was skilled in playing several instruments, including the violin and piano. He was also a passionate collector of art and antiques, amassing an impressive collection over the years. Despite his many accomplishments, Ambros remained humble and dedicated to his craft. He was highly respected in the entertainment industry and is remembered as a prolific and gifted artist.
Otto Ambros was born into a family of artists, and his parents were both successful painters. He showed an early interest in the arts and began studying acting and directing at a young age. Ambros made his stage debut in the early 1930s at the Theater in der Josefstadt in Vienna, where his talent was quickly recognized. He continued to act in stage productions throughout his career and was known for his dynamic performances and natural stage presence.
In the 1940s, Ambros joined the Austrian film industry and quickly established himself as a versatile and skilled actor. He appeared in a wide range of films, from romantic comedies to historical dramas, and was praised for his ability to bring depth and nuance to his characters. Ambros' success as an actor led him to explore directing as well, and he quickly gained a reputation as a visionary filmmaker with a keen eye for detail.
In addition to his work in film and theater, Ambros was also a dedicated teacher and mentor to many young artists. He taught acting and directing at the University of Vienna and was widely regarded as one of the most influential teachers of his time. Ambros' legacy as an artist and educator continues to inspire new generations of performers and filmmakers today.
Karl Blühm
Karl Blühm (September 17, 1910 Vienna-October 10, 1996 Salzburg) was an Austrian actor.
He began his acting career in the 1930s and gained recognition for his stage performances in Vienna. Blühm appeared in over 50 films, including "The Third Man" and "The Dark Eyes of London". He was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to numerous radio dramas and dubbed films.
During World War II, Blühm was drafted into the German army and fought in several battles. After the war, he returned to his acting career and continued to perform on stage and in films. In addition to his acting work, Blühm was an accomplished painter and exhibited his artwork throughout Austria.
He was married three times, and had two children. Blühm retired from acting in the early 1980s and spent the remainder of his life in Salzburg, where he died in 1996 at the age of 86.
Blühm was not only an actor and painter, but he was also a trained classical singer. He was a baritone and performed in operas and musicals in addition to his acting career. Blühm was also a polyglot and spoke numerous languages fluently, including English, French, Italian, and Russian.
In his later years, Blühm became a passionate environmentalist and supported the preservation of Austria's natural landscapes. He also worked with several charities and was an advocate for social justice and human rights.
Blühm's contributions to the arts were recognized with several awards, including the Austrian Cross of Honor for Science and Art, 1st class, in 1979. A street in Vienna was also named after him in 2007 to honor his legacy as an actor and painter.
Blühm's acting career spanned several decades, during which he played a wide range of roles in films and on stage. He was notable for his ability to portray complex characters with depth and authenticity. His performances in films like "The Third Man" and "The Dark Eyes of London" were especially acclaimed and helped cement his reputation as a versatile actor.
Aside from his acting and painting career, Blühm was also a published author. He wrote several books on the arts, including a memoir of his experiences as an actor, and also wrote poetry.
Throughout his life, Blühm was known for his intelligence, kindness, and generosity. He was a mentor to many young actors and artists, and his legacy lives on in their work. Today, he is remembered as one of Austria's most beloved actors and artists, whose talent and passion for the arts continue to inspire new generations.