Swiss movie stars born in 1928
Here are 5 famous actresses from Switzerland were born in 1928:
Selma Urfer
Selma Urfer (March 30, 1928 Bern-May 2, 2013 Munich) otherwise known as Selma Urfer-Graf was a Swiss actor, author and translator. She had one child, Dominik Graf.
Born in Bern, Switzerland, Selma Urfer began her acting career in the 1940s, appearing in several stage productions and films. She went on to become a prolific author, writing books on a variety of subjects including women's history and literature. In addition, she was a respected translator, translating works from French and English into German.
Aside from her creative pursuits, Urfer was also a social activist, advocating for women's rights and prison reform. She worked with various advocacy groups throughout her life and her activism was reflected in much of her writing.
Urfer passed away on May 2, 2013 in Munich, Germany at the age of 85. She is remembered as a talented and multifaceted artist as well as a passionate advocate for social justice.
Selma Urfer was particularly known for her work as a translator. She translated works of famous writers including Simone de Beauvoir, Tennessee Williams and Edith Wharton. In 1976, she received the Literature Prize of the City of Bern for her work as an author. As an actor, she appeared in numerous German and Swiss films and TV shows, including the popular German crime drama "Tatort". She also taught acting classes at the University of Hamburg. Selma Urfer was also a founding member of the German PEN Center, an organization that works to promote freedom of speech and support writers in need. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and activists alike.
In addition to her translation work, Selma Urfer was also an accomplished author in her own right. She wrote several books on women's history and literature, including "Frauenleben" (Women's Lives) and "Frauen an der Schwelle" (Women on the Threshold), which explored the challenges faced by women in the 20th century. She also wrote a memoir titled "Im Zwischenraum" (In Between Spaces), which chronicled her own life and experiences. Throughout her writing, Urfer was known for her insightful and nuanced portrayals of women's lives and experiences.
Beyond her artistic pursuits, Selma Urfer was also a committed activist. She was involved in numerous advocacy groups throughout her life, including the Swiss League for Women's Rights and the German Society for Human Rights. She was particularly passionate about prison reform and worked tirelessly to improve conditions for incarcerated individuals. Her activism was reflected in much of her writing, which often explored issues of social justice and inequality.
Despite facing discrimination and obstacles as a woman in the male-dominated worlds of acting, writing, and activism, Selma Urfer remained steadfast in her beliefs and continued to push for change throughout her life. Her legacy as a talented artist and a passionate advocate for social justice continues to inspire others to this day.
Selma Urfer's son, Dominik Graf, followed in her footsteps and became a prominent film director in Germany. He directed over 40 feature films and is considered one of the leading figures in the German New Wave cinema movement. Selma Urfer's influence on her son's choices in filmmaking has been noted, as many of his films explore social justice and political issues, much like his mother's writing. Urfer's legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and activists who strive to make a positive impact on society through their work.
Selma Urfer was a trailblazer for women in the arts and activism, and her influence can still be felt today. Despite facing numerous obstacles throughout her life, she remained dedicated to her creative pursuits and her commitment to social justice. Her work as a translator, author, actor, and activist touched on a wide range of important issues and themes, from women's rights to prison reform to freedom of speech. Her legacy is a testament to the power of art and activism to effect change and make a meaningful difference in the world.
Gunilla Palmstierna-Weiss
Gunilla Palmstierna-Weiss (March 28, 1928 Lausanne-) also known as Gunilla Palmstierna or Gunilla Palmstierne is a Swiss costume designer, production designer and actor. Her child is called Nadja Palmstjerna-Weiss.
Gunilla Palmstierna-Weiss was born into an aristocratic family in Lausanne, Switzerland. After completing her education, she pursued her passion for the arts and trained in costume and production design at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm, Sweden.
Palmstierna-Weiss began her career as a costume designer for stage productions in Sweden before breaking into the film industry in the 1960s. She would go on to work on over 50 feature films in her career, collaborating with notable directors such as Ingmar Bergman, Vilgot Sjöman, and Bo Widerberg. Her work on films like "The Silence" and "The Shame" earned critical acclaim and brought attention to her talent as a designer.
In addition to her work in the film industry, Palmstierna-Weiss was also an accomplished actor, and appeared in several films and TV series throughout her career. She was married to Swedish actor Gunnar Björnstrand until his death in 1986.
Outside of her professional work, Palmstierna-Weiss was a lover of nature and an advocate for environmental causes. She owned a farm in Sweden where she lived for many years, and was actively involved in preserving the natural beauty of the land.
Today, she is remembered as a pioneering figure in Scandinavian cinema and a talented artist in her own right.
Palmstierna-Weiss's contributions to the film industry were not limited to costume and production design. She also worked as a set designer and art director, with her meticulous attention to detail and ability to create immersive environments that enhanced the storytelling. Her collaborations with Ingmar Bergman included the films "Hour of the Wolf" and "Shame," and she also worked on Bergman's iconic TV series "Fanny and Alexander." Palmstierna-Weiss's work extended beyond Sweden, with her designing costumes for the international productions "Swann in Love" and "The Nasty Girl."
In addition to her successful career in the arts, Palmstierna-Weiss was also a philanthropist and supported several social and environmental causes. She donated her farm to the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation with the aim of preserving its natural beauty and protecting it from development. In 2013, she was awarded the Royal Patriotic Society's gold medal for her contributions to Swedish cultural life.
Palmstierna-Weiss's legacy continues to influence the film industry, with her work inspiring a new generation of costume and production designers. Her importance in Scandinavian cinema is recognized through retrospectives of her films and exhibitions of her costumes and design sketches. Through her art and activism, Palmstierna-Weiss leaves behind a profound impact on both the cultural and natural landscapes of Sweden.
Palmstierna-Weiss had a long and illustrious career in the film industry, spanning over five decades. She continued to work well into her 80s and was actively involved in film projects and events. In 2015, she was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the Guldbagge Awards, the Swedish equivalent of the Oscars. Her acceptance speech was a powerful statement about the role of women in the film industry and their struggle for recognition and equal opportunities. Palmstierna-Weiss was a trailblazer for women in the film industry and a champion for artistic expression and social justice. Her legacy remains an inspiration to many who continue to push the boundaries of creativity and activism.
In addition to her numerous contributions to the arts and philanthropy, Gunilla Palmstierna-Weiss was also a globetrotter and a polyglot, speaking several languages fluently. Her travels to various countries, including India, inspired her to incorporate exotic elements into her designs and create unique and memorable costumes for her films. Her attention to detail and her ability to evoke particular moods through her designs made her a much sought-after designer, and she worked with some of the most prominent actors, directors, and producers in the world. Palmstierna-Weiss's impact on the film industry and her contributions to society make her an important figure in Swedish and international cultural history. Her compassionate outlook on life, her artistic sensibility, and her strong beliefs continue to inspire and influence generations today.
Throughout her career, Gunilla Palmstierna-Weiss was not only renowned for her artistic talents but also for her outspoken views on social issues. She was a passionate advocate for gender equality and women's rights, and her work often reflected her commitment to challenging societal norms. In particular, her designs for Vilgot Sjöman's film "I Am Curious (Yellow)" sparked controversy and were subjected to censorship due to their frank portrayal of sexuality and politics.
Palmstierna-Weiss was also committed to environmental causes, and served as a board member for several organizations dedicated to conservation and sustainability. Her farm in Sweden, which she donated to the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation, became a model for sustainable agriculture and ecological preservation.
Despite her many achievements and accolades, Palmstierna-Weiss remained modest and grounded, and was renowned for her warmth and generosity. She continued to inspire those around her with her passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place until her passing in 2019 at the age of 91.
Helen Vita
Helen Vita (August 7, 1928 Hohenschwangau-February 16, 2001 Berlin) otherwise known as Helene Elisabeth Reichel, Helene Vita, Helen Vita Elizabeth Reichel or Helen Vita Elizabeth Reichel Baumgartner was a Swiss actor, singer and comedian.
She began her career in Berlin in the 1950s, where she quickly became a popular cabaret performer. Vita is best known for her collaborations with composer Friedrich Hollaender, including her performances in the popular revue "Spree-Revellers". She also appeared in numerous films, including "Against the Wind" and "The Haunted Castle".
In addition to her acting career, Vita was also a successful singer, with hits such as "Ich bin ja heut' so glücklich" and "Ganz Paris träumt von der Liebe". She was also a prolific voice actress, known for her dubbing work in films such as "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" and "The Addams Family".
Despite her success, Vita's life was not without hardship. She was sent to a concentration camp during World War II due to her Jewish heritage, and later struggled with alcoholism. Nevertheless, she remained a beloved figure in German entertainment until her death in 2001.
After being sent to a concentration camp as a teenager during the war, Vita's family was able to flee to Switzerland where she studied art and sang in jazz clubs before moving to Berlin. Vita was known for her biting humor and larger-than-life personality on stage and screen, and she often played provocative and unapologetic characters. She collaborated with many prominent artists of her time, including Marlene Dietrich and Bertolt Brecht, and was a fixture in the German entertainment scene for decades. Later in life, Vita struggled with declining health and financial difficulties, but continued to perform until shortly before her death in 2001 at the age of 72.
Vita was a versatile performer, equally at home in comedic and dramatic roles. She won critical acclaim for her performances in plays such as "The Threepenny Opera" and "Mother Courage and Her Children". In addition to her stage and film work, Vita also released several albums throughout her career, showcasing her vocal range and versatility.
Vita was married three times, and had one daughter. She was known for her wit and sharp tongue, often making controversial statements and irreverent jokes in interviews. Her legacy as a pioneering female comedian and entertainer continues to be celebrated in Germany and beyond. In 2019, a documentary about her life and career, titled "Helen Vita - In Search of the Great Freedom", premiered at the Zurich Film Festival.
Throughout her career, Vita was known for her bold and unconventional style, both on and off stage. She was known to wear daring and flamboyant outfits, often sporting revealing clothing that challenged societal norms of the era. Vita was also a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and was considered a queer icon in Germany. In the 1970s, she founded a theater group called "Die Katakombe", which focused on LGBTQ+ themes and issues.Vita's impact on German entertainment and culture cannot be understated. Her work as an actor, singer, and comedian paved the way for future generations of artists to explore taboo subjects and push artistic boundaries. She remains a beloved figure in German entertainment history, and her contributions continue to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
In addition to her artistic accomplishments, Helen Vita was also known for her strong opinions and political activism. She was a vocal critic of the Nazi regime and spoke out against oppression and discrimination throughout her life. Vita was also involved in various humanitarian causes, including supporting refugees and advocating for peace. Her activism and advocacy work earned her numerous awards and honors, including the Order of Merit of Berlin and the Federal Cross of Merit, two of the highest honors in Germany.
Despite facing personal and professional hardships throughout her life, Vita remained resilient and dedicated to her craft. Her influence on the world of entertainment and the LGBTQ+ community in Germany continue to be felt today. She is remembered as a trailblazer and icon, breaking barriers and challenging norms during a time of great social and cultural change in Germany.
Jack de Lassartesse
Jack de Lassartesse (January 21, 1928 Switzerland-) a.k.a. Edouard Probst is a Swiss actor and wrestler.
He was born in Geneva, Switzerland to a family of performers. De Lassartesse began his acting career in the 1950s, appearing in several French television shows and movies. He is also known for his wrestling career, where he went by the ring name Edouard Probst. De Lassartesse was a two-time European Heavyweight Champion and competed in numerous matches throughout Europe in the 1960s and 1970s. Despite his success in wrestling, he continued to act in films and television shows up until the 1990s. Today, de Lassartesse is considered a legend in both the acting and wrestling communities, and has left a lasting impact on both industries.
Aside from his acting and wrestling career, Jack de Lassartesse is also known for his work as a stuntman and director. He was often called upon to perform stunts in the movies he acted in and even directed a few films himself. De Lassartesse was instrumental in bringing a new level of realism to action scenes in movies and is considered one of the pioneers in that field. He also trained and mentored many aspiring wrestlers and actors throughout his career. De Lassartesse has received numerous awards for his contributions to both the entertainment and sports industries, including the French Legion of Honor in 1986. He continues to be an active member of the entertainment community and is highly respected by his peers.
De Lassartesse's passion for the entertainment industry was evident at a young age, as he began performing in stage productions with his family as a child. However, his love for wrestling developed later in life, and he quickly became a force to be reckoned with in the ring. He was known for his strong, athletic build and his signature "Probst Press" move, which helped him secure many victories in his matches.
In addition to his accomplishments in the entertainment and sports industries, de Lassartesse was also a philanthropist, using his celebrity status to help fund and support various charitable organizations. He was particularly dedicated to helping underprivileged children and worked closely with several organizations that provided aid and resources to children in need.
Throughout his long and illustrious career, de Lassartesse remained humble and committed to his craft, always striving to improve and push the boundaries of what was possible in both the acting and wrestling worlds. His legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of performers and athletes, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest entertainers of his time.
De Lassartesse's acting career began in the 1950s, where he appeared in several French television series and movies. His breakthrough performance came in the 1959 French film "Le Doulos," directed by Jean-Pierre Melville. He continued to act in a variety of films throughout the 1960s and 1970s, including the French comedy "The Great Spy Chase" and Italian film "The Shortest Day."
As a stuntman, de Lassartesse worked on many high-profile films, including the James Bond movie "Goldfinger" and the French thriller "Le Samourai." He also directed a handful of films, including the 1978 action movie "Case White, the Dawn of Assault."
De Lassartesse's dedication to his craft was evident in his meticulous preparation for roles. He learned multiple languages, including German, Italian, and English, to expand his opportunities as an actor. He also trained extensively for his wrestling matches, spending countless hours in the gym perfecting his physique and moves.
Despite his success in both entertainment and sports, de Lassartesse remained a modest and humble individual throughout his life. He was known for his kindness and generosity, and was beloved by fans and colleagues alike.
Today, de Lassartesse's legacy lives on through the many performers and wrestlers he trained and inspired. He will always be remembered as a true pioneer in the entertainment industry and a symbol of excellence and dedication.
De Lassartesse's legacy also includes his contributions to the world of fashion. In the 1960s, he became a fashion model and was featured in several high-profile campaigns for luxury brands. He was known for his rugged, masculine look, which helped him stand out in a competitive industry. De Lassartesse's success as a model paved the way for other actors and athletes to enter the world of fashion, and he is widely regarded as one of the first male models to achieve significant success in the industry.
In addition to his modeling work, de Lassartesse was a passionate collector of vintage cars and motorcycles. He owned several classic vehicles, including a 1960s Ferrari and a 1930s Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail when it came to restoring and maintaining these vehicles, and his collection was highly respected among fellow collectors and enthusiasts.
Throughout his life, de Lassartesse remained committed to his family, and he often credited his success to their love and support. He was married to his wife, Colette, for over 60 years, and the two had several children and grandchildren. De Lassartesse's family was always present at his performances and matches, and he often spoke fondly of their unwavering support and encouragement.
Today, de Lassartesse is remembered as a true Renaissance man, with talents and accomplishments that spanned multiple industries. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to excellence have made him a beloved figure in the entertainment and sports worlds, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence performers and athletes around the world.
Regine Lutz
Regine Lutz (December 22, 1928 Basel-) is a Swiss actor.
Regine Lutz was born in Basel, Switzerland on December 22, 1928. She initially began her career as a stage actor and performed in various theater productions, before transitioning to film and television. Lutz is well-known for her role in the popular Swiss television series "Die Schwarzwaldklinik" (The Black Forest Clinic) in which she played Sister Hildegard for several seasons.
Throughout her career, Lutz has received multiple awards for her contributions to Swiss theater, film, and television. She has also served as a theater director and drama teacher at several institutions. Lutz's extensive experience in theater and her ability to portray complex characters with ease has made her one of the most respected actors of her generation. Even in her nineties, she continues to work in the Swiss film industry and inspire younger generations of artists.
In addition to her role in "Die Schwarzwaldklinik," Regine Lutz starred in several other film and television productions throughout her career. She appeared in the popular Swiss crime series "Matto regiert," and in the comedy film "Traumland" (Dreamland). Lutz also had notable roles in the theater productions of plays such as "The Visit" and "A Doll's House."
Lutz's dedication to the arts was recognized by the Swiss government in 2018, when she was awarded a lifetime achievement award for her contributions to culture. She has also been awarded the Culture Award of the City of Basel and the Hans-Reinhart-Ring, which is the highest distinction that can be given to a Swiss theater artist.
As a theater director, Lutz has worked with various professional companies and has directed productions of works by playwrights such as Shakespeare and Chekhov. She has also taught drama at several institutions, including the Schauspiel-Akademie Zürich.
Regine Lutz's talent and dedication to the arts have left a lasting impact on the Swiss cultural scene, and she remains a celebrated figure in the country's theatrical and cinematic communities.
Aside from her career in acting, Regine Lutz has also been an advocate for women's rights and gender equality. In the 1970s, she was involved in the women's movement in Switzerland and helped establish a women's shelter in Basel. Lutz has also been a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, speaking out against discrimination and advocating for equal rights for all.
Throughout her career, Lutz has been praised for her commitment to her craft and her ability to transform into a range of characters. Her legacy has inspired younger generations of actors and artists, and she continues to be a beloved figure in Swiss culture. In interviews, Lutz has expressed gratitude for the opportunities she has had throughout her career, and has emphasized the importance of hard work and perseverance in the arts.
Regine Lutz's legacy goes beyond her esteemed acting career and her advocacy for women's and LGBTQ+ rights. She is also a polyglot, capable of speaking several languages fluently. Apart from her native Swiss-German, she speaks German, French, English, and Italian, which has made her a versatile performer with the ability to take on roles in different languages. Her talent was recognized by the Swiss government, who awarded her the title of "Officer of Arts and Letters" in 1983.
Lutz was married to the renowned Swiss actor and director Kurt Horwitz until his death in 1991. The couple shared a passion for theater and often collaborated on productions.
In addition to her other accomplishments, Lutz is also an accomplished author. She has written several books, including her memoirs "Närrische Herzen" (Foolish Hearts) and "Seiltanz - Versuche einer Balance" (Tightrope Walking: Attempts at Balance). Her writing reflects her dedication to her craft, as well as her insights on the social and cultural issues that have shaped Swiss society over the years.
Regine Lutz is a true icon of Swiss culture, who has left a lasting impact on the arts and beyond. Her contributions to theater and film, as well as her activism, have made her a respected and beloved figure in the country and beyond.
Throughout her career, Regine Lutz has also been involved in various charitable organizations. She has been a supporter and ambassador for organizations such as UNICEF and Caritas, which provide aid and support to vulnerable communities around the world. Lutz's dedication to humanitarian causes is a testament to her kind-hearted nature and her commitment to using her platform for good.
Despite her numerous accomplishments, Regine Lutz remains humble and grounded. She continues to live and work in Basel, the city of her birth, and remains an active member of the Swiss cultural community. Her legacy serves as an inspiration to both artists and activists around the world, and she is truly a Swiss national treasure.