Popular character comedian of German films in the 1930's and 40's, the son of a music teacher. Initially trained to be an architect. Studied acting under Louise Dumont in Düsseldorf. Had success on stage in "Charley's Aunt" and "Menschen im Hotel", as well as with Chaplin impersonations in cabaret. On screen sometimes in tragic-comic roles. His best-known performance was in the film
Amphitryon (1935), in which he played two distinctly different characters.