Here are 7 famous actresses from Sweden were born in 1912:
Kristina Söderbaum (September 5, 1912 Stockholm-February 12, 2001 Hitzacker) a.k.a. Kristina Soderbaum, Beata Margareta Kristina Söderbaum, Reichswasserleiche, Blond Ambition, Blonde Bitch of Goebbels or The Queen of UFA was a Swedish photographer and actor.
During her career, Söderbaum appeared in more than 40 films produced by the German film company UFA, including prominent roles in several films directed by her husband, filmmaker Veit Harlan. Some of her most notable roles were in the films "Tiefland" and "Jud Süß."
Despite her success in the film industry, Söderbaum's association with the Nazi regime and her marriage to Harlan, who was considered one of Hitler's favorite filmmakers, has often overshadowed her career. In interviews later in life, Söderbaum expressed regret for her involvement with the Nazi party and the propaganda films she appeared in.
After the end of World War II, Söderbaum was briefly imprisoned by the French for her Nazi affiliations but was eventually released due to a lack of evidence against her. She then retired from acting and became a successful photographer, specializing in portraits of celebrities and politicians.
Söderbaum passed away on February 12, 2001, in Hitzacker, Germany, at the age of 88. Despite the controversy surrounding her career, she remains a prominent figure in the history of German cinema.
Kristina Söderbaum was born on September 5, 1912, in Stockholm, Sweden. She grew up in a wealthy family and was educated in Switzerland, Germany, and France. Söderbaum had a passion for the arts from a young age and eventually pursued a career in acting.
In 1935, Söderbaum signed a contract with UFA, Germany's largest film studio. She quickly became one of their most popular actresses and worked with many of the industry's leading directors. However, it was her work with her husband Veit Harlan that brought her the most attention.
Harlan, who was known for his propaganda films, directed several movies featuring Söderbaum in prominent roles. She played the lead in "Tiefland," a controversial movie that featured Roma people in stereotypical roles. Söderbaum's performance in the film was praised by many, but its political messages and imagery drew criticism.
During World War II, Söderbaum and Harlan were both members of the Nazi party. She appeared in several more propaganda films, including "Jud Süß," which was later banned in Germany for its anti-Semitic themes.
After the war, Söderbaum's association with the Nazi regime led to her temporary imprisonment by the French. She was later released due to a lack of evidence against her. Söderbaum retired from acting and began a new career as a photographer. She specialized in portraits of celebrities and politicians and became well-known for her work in Germany.
In interviews later in life, Söderbaum expressed regret for her involvement with the Nazi party and the propaganda films she appeared in. Despite the controversy surrounding her career, she remains an important figure in the history of German cinema. Söderbaum passed away on February 12, 2001, in Hitzacker, Germany, at the age of 88.
Despite her association with the controversial propaganda films of the Nazi era, Söderbaum was credited for her contribution to the development of German cinema. Her work as an actress and her collaborations with leading directors and filmmakers helped shape German film production during the 1930s and 1940s. On a personal level, Söderbaum was known for her elegance, beauty, and grace both on and off-screen. After her retirement from acting, she continued to live a private life with her husband until his death in 1964. Söderbaum's legacy in German cinema is one that continues to be discussed and analyzed, and her story serves as a reminder of the dangers of propaganda and political affiliations in the arts.
Brita Appelgren (December 21, 1912 Stockholm-October 29, 1999 Stockholm) also known as Disa Britta Jakobina Appelgren, Britta Appelgren, Brita Appelgren-Hermansson or Brita Appelgren-Nordgren was a Swedish actor and dancer. Her child is called Malou Hallström.
Brita Appelgren began her acting career in the 1930s and became a prominent figure in Swedish film and theatre. She appeared in over 40 films, including the Ingmar Bergman-directed "Smiles of a Summer Night" (1955). Appelgren was also an accomplished dancer and performed with several ballet companies throughout Europe.
In addition to her successful acting and dancing career, Appelgren was a devoted mother to her daughter, Malou Hallström, who followed in her mother's footsteps and became an actor and screenwriter.
Appelgren received numerous awards for her contributions to Swedish theatre and film, including the prestigious Royal Swedish Academy of Arts Award in 1992. She passed away in 1999 at the age of 86 in her hometown of Stockholm.
During her long career, Brita Appelgren worked with some of the biggest names in Swedish theater and film, including director Alf Sjöberg and actors Ingrid Bergman and Bibi Andersson. In addition to her live performance work, she also appeared on television, including in the popular Swedish TV series "Hem till byn" ("Home to the Village").
Appelgren was known for her versatility and ability to portray a range of characters, from romantic leads to more comedic roles. She was also known for her dedication to her craft and her willingness to take risks in her performances.
In addition to her work as an actor and dancer, Appelgren was a feminist and activist for women's rights. She was a member of the Women's Caucus in the Swedish Actors' Union and was involved in the fight for equal pay and better working conditions for female actors.
Today, Brita Appelgren is remembered as a trailblazer in Swedish entertainment, whose contributions have left a lasting impact on the industry.
Appelgren's talent for acting and dancing was apparent from a young age. She attended the prestigious Royal Swedish Ballet School, where she honed her skills as a dancer. After finishing her training, she went on to perform with several ballet companies throughout Europe, including the Paris Opera Ballet.
In the 1930s, Appelgren turned her attention to acting and quickly rose to fame. Her breakthrough role came in 1937 when she appeared in the film "Seventh Heaven", directed by Hasse Ekman. She went on to have a successful career in both film and theatre, appearing in a variety of productions. Her most notable film roles include "Kärlekens decimaler" (1978) and "De tre små ord" (1967), while her theatre performances received critical acclaim.
Appelgren's dedication to her craft made her a beloved figure in the Swedish entertainment industry. She was known for her tireless work ethic and willingness to take on challenging roles. Her commitment to her acting and dancing careers never wavered, and she continued to perform well into her later years.
In addition to her contributions to Swedish entertainment, Appelgren was a passionate feminist and advocate for women's rights. She was known for her unwavering support of equal pay and better working conditions for female actors. Her tireless work on behalf of women in the entertainment industry helped pave the way for future generations of actresses.
Today, Brita Appelgren's legacy lives on through her impressive body of work and her commitment to social justice. She remains a beloved figure in Swedish culture and a true trailblazer in the world of entertainment.
Aino Taube (July 11, 1912 Espergærde-July 11, 1990 Stockholm) a.k.a. Aino Taube-Henrikson was a Swedish actor. Her children are called Mathias Henrikson and Ella Henrikson.
She was born on July 11, 1912 in Espergærde, Denmark to Swedish parents. She grew up in Sweden and began her acting career in the late 1920s. Aino Taube gained fame in both Sweden and Germany for her roles in theater, film, and television. She appeared in over 50 films throughout her career, including the 1939 film "Only One Night" for which she received critical acclaim. Taube's talent was not limited to acting, as she was also a gifted singer and performed in several operas and musicals. She was married to the renowned Swedish actor Edvin Adolphson for over four decades until his death in 1979. In addition to her two children, she also had several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Aino Taube passed away on July 11, 1990 in Stockholm on her 78th birthday. She remains a beloved figure in Swedish theater and film history.
Taube's acting career began in the late 1920s when she joined the theater company at Stockholm's Oscar Theatre. She quickly gained popularity for her roles in plays such as "Pygmalion" and "The Taming of the Shrew." Taube's talent and versatility enabled her to seamlessly transition to film, where she starred in a number of successful productions in the 1930s and 1940s.
Taube's fame extended beyond Sweden and Germany, as she received critical acclaim for her performances in productions such as "Anne-Marie" (1936) and "The Emperor of Portugallia" (1944). She also had success in television, starring in the popular Swedish series "Hem till byn" (1971-1973).
In addition to her acting career, Taube was a celebrated singer, performing in a number of operas and musicals, including "My Fair Lady" and "The Gypsy Baron." Her stage presence and beautiful voice were said to captivate audiences.
Taube's personal life was also a source of interest to the public, as she was married to fellow actor Edvin Adolphson for over 40 years. Their partnership was not only romantic but also professional, as they often appeared together in productions both on stage and in film.
After Taube's passing in 1990, she was remembered as a beloved figure in Swedish theater and film history, whose talents and contributions to the industry will not be forgotten.
Taube's legacy as an actress and singer was recognized with several awards throughout her lifetime. She was awarded the prestigious Litteris et Artibus medal by the Swedish Royal Family in 1964, which honors outstanding accomplishments in the arts and literature. She was also awarded the Swedish Film Institute's Guldbagge Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1982 for her performance in the film "Fanny and Alexander." In addition, she was awarded the Illis Quorum medal in 1973, which recognizes personal merit and public service in Sweden.
Taube was known for her philanthropic work and was a strong advocate for women's rights. She was involved with several charities, including the Swedish Cancer Society and the Swedish Red Cross, and was a founding member of the Women's Party in Sweden. Taube also served on the board of directors for several cultural organizations and was a prominent figure in the Swedish arts community.
Taube's contributions to Swedish theater and film continue to be celebrated today, with her performances still praised for their depth and emotional range. She has been hailed as one of the greatest actresses of her generation, and her impact on Swedish culture and society is still felt today.
Birgit Rosengren (November 27, 1912 Stockholm-October 6, 2011 Bromma) also known as Birgit Elisabeth Rosengren or Birgit Rosengren-Ahrle was a Swedish actor. Her children are called Leif Ahrle and Carina Ahrle.
Rosengren trained at the Royal Dramatic Theatre's acting school in Stockholm and began her career as a stage actress, working with both classical and modern plays. She became known for her versatile performances and was recognized as one of Sweden's leading stage actresses.
In the 1940s, Rosengren began transitioning into film and television, where she also found success as an actress. She appeared in over 50 films and TV shows throughout her career. Her notable film credits include "Kvinnors väntan" (1952), "Fröken Julie" (1951), and "Älskling på vift" (1959).
In addition to her acting work, Rosengren was also a theater director and served as the artistic director of the Stockholm City Theatre from 1964 to 1972. She was a pioneer for women's rights and equality in the Swedish theater industry and was an advocate for increased funding and support for the arts.
Rosengren was widely regarded as one of Sweden's most respected and accomplished actors, receiving numerous awards and honors throughout her career. She passed away in 2011 at the age of 98.
Rosengren's contribution to Swedish culture and arts has been widely recognized by the government and the entertainment industry. She was awarded the Illis Quorum medal by the Swedish government in 1979, which is one of the country's highest civilian honors, for her contributions to theater and film. In addition, she was awarded the Eugene O'Neill Award in 1982 for her accomplishments in theater. Rosengren continued to work in theater and film until her late eighties, and her performances were consistently praised for their emotional depth and nuanced characterizations. She was known for her sharp wit and candid personality, and was beloved by her colleagues and fans alike. Despite her success and acclaim, Rosengren remained humble and dedicated to her craft throughout her life, and her legacy continues to inspire actors and artists around the world.
Throughout her career, Rosengren was a trailblazer for women in the entertainment industry, advocating for increased representation and opportunities for female actors and directors. In 1954, she became the first woman to direct a play at the Royal Dramatic Theatre, one of the most prestigious theaters in Sweden. She went on to direct numerous productions throughout her career, including plays by August Strindberg and William Shakespeare. In 1973, she founded the Birgit Rosengren Theatre Studio, which aimed to provide training and support for young actors and directors. The studio became known for its innovative and experimental productions, and counted many successful actors and directors among its alumni.
In addition to her work in theater and film, Rosengren was also a prominent voice in the political and social issues of her time. She was a member of the Swedish Social Democratic Party and an advocate for progressive causes such as gender equality, LGBTQ rights, and immigrant rights. In the 1960s, she became involved in the fight against nuclear weapons and was a vocal critic of the Vietnam War. Her activism and advocacy work earned her the respect and admiration of many in the Swedish cultural and political spheres.
In recognition of her contributions to Swedish culture and society, Rosengren was awarded numerous honors and awards throughout her life. In addition to the Illis Quorum medal and the Eugene O'Neill Award, she was also the recipient of the Royal Dramatic Theatre's prestigious Litteris et Artibus medal, as well as the Swedish Academy's Dobloug Prize. Her legacy as both an actor and a cultural icon continues to be celebrated in Sweden and around the world.
Britta Brunius (May 4, 1912 Stockholm-August 31, 2000 Stockholm) a.k.a. Britta Brunius-Falck was a Swedish actor. She had two children, Cecilia Falck and Petter Falck.
Britta Brunius was a prominent figure in the Swedish theater scene during the 1930s and 1940s. She made her acting debut in 1934 and went on to perform in numerous theater productions. In addition to her work on stage, Brunius also appeared in several films throughout her career. She was widely considered to be one of the leading actresses of her generation in Sweden. Brunius was also known for her work as a theater director, and she directed several productions in the 1950s and 1960s. She passed away in 2000 at the age of 88.
In addition to her work in theater productions and films, Britta Brunius was also a renowned radio personality in Sweden. She hosted a popular cultural program on Swedish radio called "Summer in P1" in 1959 and again in 1964. Brunius was also a prolific writer and published several books throughout her career, including an autobiography titled "Den oföränderliga längtan" (The Unchanging Longing) in 1982. She was a recipient of the Illis Quorum medal in recognition of her contributions to Swedish culture. Britta Brunius' legacy as an actor and director continues to influence the Swedish theater scene today.
Brunius had a passion for acting from a young age and attended the Royal Dramatic Theatre's acting school in Stockholm. She made her stage debut in 1934 in a production of "Pippi Longstocking" and went on to perform in both classical and contemporary plays. Some of her most notable roles include Hedda Gabler in Henrik Ibsen's play of the same name and Blanche DuBois in Tennessee Williams' "A Streetcar Named Desire." Brunius was also known for her work in radio, and she hosted several programs throughout her career. Her cultural program "Summer in P1" was particularly popular and is still remembered fondly by many Swedes today. In addition to her entertainment career, Brunius was an activist and advocated for better working conditions for actors and cultural workers. She was also a feminist and worked to promote women's rights throughout her life. Despite passing away in 2000, Britta Brunius' contribution to Swedish culture is remembered and celebrated to this day.
Lola Iris Viola Johansson (March 1, 1912 Varberg-December 24, 1998 Gothenburg) also known as Lola Iris Viola Svenson, Lola Svensson, Lola Iris Viola Hertzberg or Iris Viola Hertzberg was a Swedish singer and actor. Her child is called Bo Svenson.
Johansson began her career as a singer in the 1930s, performing primarily in jazz clubs before she transitioned to acting. She appeared in a number of Swedish films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, showcasing her versatility as an actor in roles ranging from dramatic to comedic. In addition to her film work, Johansson also worked in theater, including notable productions of Shakespearean plays.
Johansson's personal life was marked by tragedy, including the loss of her husband and her son's struggles with addiction. Despite these challenges, Johansson remained a beloved figure in Swedish entertainment, known for her talent and her warm personality. In recognition of her contributions to Swedish culture, she was honored with a lifetime achievement award by the Swedish government in 1985. Johansson passed away in 1998 at the age of 86.
Johansson was born into a family of musicians, with her mother and father both being pianists. She started singing at an early age and later attended a music school in Stockholm. Her first professional job as a singer was performing with the popular Swedish jazz group, Sam Sam's Quartet, in the late 1930s. After gaining popularity as a singer, Johansson made the transition to acting, starring in her first film in 1943, entitled "The Cat That Hated People". Over the course of her career, she appeared in over 25 films and dozens of stage productions.
Outside of her work in the entertainment industry, Johansson was known for her charitable work. She was a dedicated supporter of Swedish charities focused on helping children and animals. Johansson was also politically active and was a vocal supporter of the Swedish Social Democratic Party.
Despite her many accomplishments, Johansson remained humble and grounded throughout her life. She once said in an interview, "I've been fortunate enough to have a career doing what I love. But at the end of the day, what matters most to me is my family and being a good person."
Johansson's son Bo Svenson also went on to become an actor, appearing in both Swedish and American films. However, his struggles with addiction prompted Johansson to become an advocate for drug rehabilitation programs. She often spoke publicly about her own experiences dealing with her son's addiction and the importance of supporting those who are struggling with substance abuse.
In addition to her entertainment and philanthropic work, Johansson was also known for her love of nature and the outdoors. She was an avid hiker and enjoyed spending time in the Swedish countryside. Her love of nature was reflected in her personal style, often seen wearing floral prints and earth tones.
Johansson's contributions to Swedish entertainment and culture are still recognized and celebrated today. Her legacy lives on through her performances, her charitable work, and her dedication to family and community.
Ilse-Nore Tromm (August 8, 1912 Düsseldorf-March 25, 1994 Stockholm) also known as Ilse Nora Isolde Tromm was a Swedish actor.
Ilse-Nore Tromm was born in Düsseldorf, Germany, and grew up in Berlin. She later moved to Sweden and started her acting career in the theatre. She made her film debut in 1944 in the Swedish film "Flickan och Djävulen" and appeared in several other Swedish films throughout the 1940s and 1950s.
Tromm was known for her versatility as an actress, and she played a wide range of roles in films, on stage, and on television. She was particularly skilled at portraying complex and conflicted characters, and her performances were often praised for their emotional depth and nuance.
Tromm also worked as a voice actress and dubbing artist, lending her voice to a number of foreign films and TV shows. She was widely respected in the Swedish film industry and was recognized for her contributions with numerous honors and awards.
In addition to her acting work, Tromm was also a respected theater director, and she worked on several productions throughout her career. She passed away in Stockholm in 1994 at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy as one of Sweden's most talented and versatile actors.
Tromm's career spanned over five decades, during which she appeared in more than 50 films and numerous stage productions. She was known for her collaborations with renowned Swedish filmmakers such as Ingmar Bergman, with whom she worked on the film "Wild Strawberries" (1957), and Arne Mattsson, with whom she worked on several films including "Mannequin in Red" (1958) and "Hon Dansade en Sommar" (1951).
Tromm was also a sought-after voice actress and lent her voice to dubbing foreign-language films into Swedish. Her notable voice work includes dubbing Elizabeth Taylor's voice in the Swedish version of "Cleopatra" (1963) and Maria Felix's voice in the Swedish version of "La Belle Otéro" (1954).
In addition to her contributions to Swedish cinema and theatre, Tromm was also a dedicated human rights activist. She was a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and actively supported various social causes throughout her life.
Ilse-Nore Tromm's legacy as an accomplished and versatile actor continues to be celebrated in Sweden and beyond. Her contributions to the film and theatre industry as well as her activism have cemented her place as a respected and influential figure in Swedish cultural history.
Tromm was also a skilled linguist, fluent in several languages including German, French, and English. Her multilingualism proved to be an asset in her acting career, as she was often cast in roles that required her to speak in different languages. She was a graduate of the prestigious Royal Dramatic Theatre School in Stockholm, where she honed her acting and directing skills.
Tromm's talent and determination earned her widespread recognition and acclaim. She received numerous awards throughout her career, including the Swedish government's prestigious Illis Quorum Meruere Labores medal in 1983, in recognition of her contributions to Swedish culture.
Tromm's personal life was not without challenges. She was forced to flee Germany during World War II due to her Jewish heritage and her activism against the Nazi regime. She settled in Sweden and went on to become a citizen of the country. Tromm was married twice, and had one son from her first marriage.
Ilse-Nore Tromm remains an inspiration and role model for aspiring actors and artists, as well as those who value tolerance and social justice. Her legacy lives on through her work and her advocacy, and she continues to be remembered as one of Sweden's most revered cultural icons.