Klaus Kinski

Date of Birth: October 18, 1926

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: November 23, 1991

Biography

Klaus Kinski, born Klaus Günter Karl Nakszynski on October 18, 1926, in Zoppot, Free City of Danzig (now Sopot, Poland), was a German actor known for his intense and often controversial performances. His family moved to Berlin when he was young, and he later served in the German army during World War II. Kinski’s career began in the post-war era, where he initially found work in theater before transitioning to film. He became internationally known for his collaborations with director Werner Herzog, starring in films such as “Aguirre, the Wrath of God” (1972), “Nosferatu the Vampyre” (1979), and “Fitzcarraldo” (1982). Kinski was celebrated for his ability to bring a raw, unfiltered energy to his roles, often playing characters who were as intense and unpredictable as he was in real life. Throughout his career, Kinski appeared in over 130 films. Despite his professional success, he was often in the news for his volatile personality and tumultuous personal life. He was married three times and had three children, all of whom followed him into the entertainment industry. Kinski passed away on November 23, 1991, in Lagunitas, California, USA, due to a heart attack.

5 Interesting Facts about Klaus Kinski

1. Klaus Kinski was fluent in several languages, including German, English, French, and Italian, which allowed him to work in various international film markets.

2. He was a prolific writer and published an autobiography titled “All I Need Is Love,” which was later reissued as “Kinski Uncut.”

3. Kinski’s intense relationship with director Werner Herzog was the subject of a documentary called “My Best Fiend” (1999), directed by Herzog himself.

4. He was known for his extreme method acting techniques and often stayed in character even when not filming.

5. Kinski once staged a one-man show where he portrayed Jesus Christ, which was met with mixed reactions and even led to riots at some performances.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Klaus Kinski

1. “I am not the Jesus of the official church tolerated by those in power. I am not your superstar.”

2. “I have always been alone. I don’t need anyone, and I don’t think anyone needs me.”

3. “I make films for money, exclusively for money. I don’t care about art or anything else.”

4. “The ultimate acting is to destroy yourself.”

5. “I don’t need a director who tells me what to do. I need a director who goes away.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the height of his career, Klaus Kinski’s net worth was estimated to be around $20 million.

Children

Klaus Kinski had three children: 1. Pola Kinski (born March 23, 1952) – An actress and author. 2. Nastassja Kinski (born January 24, 1961) – An internationally renowned actress and model. 3. Nikolai Kinski (born July 30, 1976) – An actor known for his work in both European and American films.