German actor-comedian
One of Germanys most famous singers and actors. The tabloids considered him as "Germanys Frank Sinatra ", and his most famous song was the German version of "I Did It My Way".
Spoke openly about his affairs and problems with alcoholism. After another breakdown in 2000, he suffered from mental derangement and lived in a nursing home until his death.
Grew up in Wedding, a working-class district in Berlin, as son of a policeman.
Had two children with Sybil Werden , Barbara (born 1953, died 1955) and Peer (born 1956), and a son with his third wife Susanne, Oliver (born 1972).
Is buried in the Waldfriedhof Dahlem in Berlin.
Made his debut as a theatrical director in 1969 in Munich.
Interrupted medical studies to take first acting lessons under Marliese Ludwig. Came to the fore on stage with the Freie Volksbuehne in Berlin, 1950-55.
