Conrad Veidt, German actor, director, and producer (b. 1893)

The Enigmatic Stare of Conrad Veidt: A Cinematic Journey from Expressionism to Anti-Nazi Heroism

Born Hans Walter Conrad Veidt on January 22, 1893, in Potsdam, Germany, Conrad Veidt etched an unforgettable presence into cinematic history with his piercing gaze and chiseled features. His early career blossomed in the vibrant landscape of German silent cinema, where his unique intensity quickly drew attention. Veidt wasn't just another actor; he was a master of the macabre and the mysterious, perfectly embodying the spirit of German Expressionism. Early on, he garnered significant acclaim for groundbreaking roles, notably in the pioneering pro-LGBTQ+ film Different from the Others (1919), where he portrayed a homosexual musician, a remarkably bold subject for its time. His turn as the somnambulist Cesare in the seminal horror classic The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920) solidified his status as an icon of the era, showcasing his extraordinary ability to convey psychological depth through physicality and haunting expressions. Later, his portrayal of Gwynplaine in The Man Who Laughs (1928), a character whose permanent, disfigured grin became a lasting image, even served as an inspiration for Batman's notorious nemesis, The Joker. At the peak of his German career, Veidt was one of UFA's best-paid and most celebrated stars, known for his versatility and captivating screen presence.

Exile and a New Beginning: British Cinema and Anti-Nazi Activism

However, Veidt's flourishing career in Germany was tragically cut short by the rise of Nazism. In 1933, with Adolf Hitler and his party seizing power, Conrad Veidt, along with his new Jewish wife, Ilona Prager, faced an impossible choice. Displaying immense courage and principle, Veidt openly declared his religion as "Jewish" on official forms, a powerful act of defiance and solidarity despite not being Jewish himself. This brave stance, coupled with his marriage, made their continued presence in Germany untenable. The couple were forced to flee, leaving behind their lives and careers to settle in Britain. Veidt quickly adapted to his new home, learning English and continuing his prolific acting career in British films. His commitment to his adopted country was unwavering, and in 1939, as World War II loomed, he proudly took British citizenship. During his time in Britain, he starred in many memorable productions, including the visually stunning fantasy adventure The Thief of Bagdad (1940), where his portrayal of the evil Grand Vizier Jaffar remains a standout performance, further demonstrating his enduring talent and adaptability across genres and languages.

Hollywood, Casablanca, and a Timeless Legacy

Around 1941, Conrad Veidt made another significant move, emigrating to the United States. It was in Hollywood that he secured perhaps his most enduring and widely remembered role: the chillingly effective Major Strasser in the timeless 1942 classic, Casablanca. As the unyielding Nazi officer, Veidt's stern demeanor and imposing presence made him the perfect foil to Humphrey Bogart's Rick Blaine and Ingrid Bergman's Ilsa Lund, cementing his place in one of cinema's greatest films. His performance captured the chilling reality of the conflict and the ideological struggle of the time. Tragically, Casablanca would be the last film role to be released during Veidt's lifetime. He passed away suddenly from a heart attack on April 3, 1943, in Hollywood, at the age of 50. Despite his premature death, Conrad Veidt left behind an extraordinary body of work spanning over two decades and multiple countries, characterized by his artistic integrity, his willingness to portray complex characters, and his personal courage in the face of tyranny. His legacy is not only that of a brilliant actor who mastered diverse roles from expressionistic monsters to iconic villains but also a testament to a man who stood firm against injustice, making him a true hero both on and off screen.

Frequently Asked Questions about Conrad Veidt

Who was Conrad Veidt?
Conrad Veidt was a renowned German actor, famous for his iconic roles in German Expressionist silent films, British cinema, and Hollywood, particularly for his portrayal of Major Strasser in Casablanca.
What are Conrad Veidt's most famous films?
His most famous films include The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920), The Man Who Laughs (1928), The Thief of Bagdad (1940), and Casablanca (1942).
Why did Conrad Veidt leave Germany?
Conrad Veidt, along with his Jewish wife Ilona Prager, was forced to leave Germany in 1933 after the Nazis came to power due to his principled opposition to the regime and his marriage to a Jewish woman. He publicly declared his "Jewish" religion on official forms in an act of solidarity.
What was Conrad Veidt's role in Casablanca?
He played the formidable and iconic antagonist, Major Heinrich Strasser, a high-ranking Nazi officer sent to Casablanca to prevent Rick Blaine from aiding Victor Laszlo.
When and how did Conrad Veidt die?
Conrad Veidt died on April 3, 1943, in Hollywood, California, from a heart attack, at the age of 50. Casablanca was released during his lifetime, making it one of his final cinematic contributions.
Did Conrad Veidt actively oppose the Nazis?
Yes, he was a staunch opponent of the Nazi regime. Beyond his act of defiance in declaring himself "Jewish," he and his wife actively supported the British war effort financially after becoming British citizens, demonstrating his deep commitment to fighting fascism.