Conrad Veidt

Date of Birth: January 22, 1893

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: April 3, 1943

Biography

Conrad Veidt, born Hans Walter Conrad Veidt, was a German actor renowned for his work in both silent and sound films. Born on January 22, 1893, in Berlin, Germany, Veidt began his acting career on the stage but soon transitioned to film. He gained international fame for his role as Cesare in the silent horror film “The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari” (1920). Throughout the 1920s and early 1930s, Veidt became one of Germany’s leading actors, starring in notable films such as “The Man Who Laughs” (1928) and “Different from the Others” (1919), one of the first films to openly address homosexuality. With the rise of the Nazi regime, Veidt, who was married to a Jewish woman, chose to leave Germany. He moved to the United Kingdom and then to the United States, where he continued his acting career. One of his most memorable roles in Hollywood was Major Heinrich Strasser in “Casablanca” (1942). Despite his villainous roles, Veidt was known for his strong anti-Nazi stance, and he used his influence to support the Allied war effort. Conrad Veidt passed away from a heart attack on April 3, 1943, in Los Angeles, California.

5 Interesting Facts about Conrad Veidt

1. Conrad Veidt was one of the highest-paid actors in Germany during the silent film era.

2. He was a staunch anti-Nazi and fled Germany in 1933 due to his opposition to Hitler’s regime and his marriage to a Jewish woman.

3. Veidt starred in “Different from the Others” (1919), one of the earliest films to address homosexuality and homophobia.

4. He donated a significant portion of his wealth to the British war effort during World War II.

5. Veidt’s portrayal of Major Strasser in “Casablanca” (1942) remains one of his most iconic roles, even though he only appeared on screen for a limited time.