Conrad Veidt

Conrad Veidt was a German-born British actor who rose to fame in the silent film era. He started his career in theater and made his film debut in 1913. He gained international recognition for his role as Cesare, the somnambulist in The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920), one of the most influential films of German Expressionism. He also starred in other notable films such as Different from the Others (1919), The Man Who Laughs (1928), The Thief of Bagdad (1940), and Casablanca (1942). Veidt was known for his versatility and ability to portray complex and nuanced characters, often with a dark or tragic edge. He played villains, heroes, anti-heroes, and romantic leads with equal conviction and charisma. He was admired by his peers and critics for his dedication and professionalism. He was also a generous and compassionate person who supported many charitable causes and helped fellow actors in need. Veidt was married three times and had one adopted daughter. He left Germany in 1933 with his third wife, Ilona Prager, who was Jewish, after the Nazis came to power. He became a British citizen in 1939 and moved to Hollywood in 1941. He continued to work in films until his death from a heart attack in 1943 at the age of 50. He was buried in Golders Green Crematorium in London, where his epitaph reads: Heart of Gold.