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Fritz Kortner was a prominent character in German and Austrian theater. He made important contributions as both a theater director and an actor for the stage and screen. His inventive directorial methods and energetic performances especially in Expressionist works left a lasting impression on the era’s cultural milieu.
Biography
Fritz Kortner was born Fritz Nathan Kohn in Vienna on May 12, 1892. He was from a Jewish family, and he studied at the Vienna Academy of Music and Dramatic Art before embarking on his professional career. His early involvement in Vienna’s thriving cultural scene a city brimming with enthusiasm for both the arts and sciences undoubtedly had a significant influence on his development as a thespian.
Upon completing his studies, Kortner embarked on a professional journey that would lead him to the heart of German Expressionist theater.
In 1911, Kortner joined the esteemed Max Reinhardt in Berlin, a move that marked the beginning of a significant phase in his career. His explosive energy on stage and powerful voice distinguished him, making him a standout performer. Leopold Jessner, another influential figure in German theater, welcomed Kortner in 1916, further solidifying his presence in the theatrical landscape.
Kortner’s breakthrough came in 1919 with his compelling performance in Ernst Toller’s “Transfiguration.” ย In addition to his powerful theatrical presence, Kortner had a significant influence on the film industry. From 1916 onward, he exhibited his versatility on the silver screen by making appearances in over ninety films. His focus was on playing dark and menacing parts, and he became well-known for his riveting theatrical presence. But as the 1920s went on, Kortner’s style changed, adding more realism and a more regulated delivery.
His portrayal of the title character in “Dreyfus” (1930) was one of his most well-known cinema appearances, demonstrating his versatility in a variety of roles. ย Being of Jewish heritage, Kortner and his wife, the actress Johanna Hofer, left Germany in 1933 when the Nazis rose to power. They traveled to Vienna, Great Britain, and eventually the United States in 1937.
Kortner continued to be involved in the theater scene in the United States by finding employment as a character actor. In 1949, Kortner went back to Germany following the war. His creative directing and staging of well-known plays by Moliรจre and Shakespeare won him praise.
However, Fritz Kortner passed away on July 22, 1970, in Munich, Germany, at the age of 78, succumbing to leukemia.
Fritz Kortner Parents
Fritz Kortner was born into a Jewish family. However, there is limited information about them.
Fritz Kortner Age, Height, Weight, Birthdate
Age | 78 years old (at the time of his death) |
Height | N/A |
Weight | N/A |
Birthdate | May 12, 1892 |
Fritz Kortner Wife/Girlfriend
Fritz Kortner was married to Johanna Hofer. They got married in 1924.
Fritz Kortner Children
Fritz Kortner had two children.
Fritz Kortner’s Net Worth
There was no information about Fritz Kortner’s net worth at his time of death.
References
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0466776/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fritz_Kortner
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