Paul Henreid, Italian-American actor and director (d. 1992)

Paul Henreid, born Paul Georg Julius Hernried von Wassel-Waldingau on January 10, 1908, in Trieste, Austria-Hungary (now Italy), was a distinguished and versatile figure in the global entertainment industry. His multifaceted career encompassed acting, directing, producing, and writing. A man of diverse origins, he held Austrian, British, and American nationalities, reflecting his journey from pre-World War II Europe, where he began his stage career, to London in the 1930s to escape Nazism, and eventually to Hollywood in 1940. Henreid’s sophisticated screen presence, distinctive continental accent, and resonant voice made him a quintessential leading man, particularly during the tumultuous era of World War II.

He is unequivocally best remembered for two iconic film roles that solidified his star status in quick succession. Both released in 1942 at the height of the war, these performances left an indelible mark on cinematic history, defining his enduring legacy as a suave, principled, and often heroic screen figure.

Iconic Film Roles: A Wartime Legacy

Victor Laszlo in Casablanca (1942)

In the timeless Warner Bros. classic Casablanca (1942), directed by Michael Curtiz, Henreid delivered a compelling performance as Victor Laszlo, the valiant Czech resistance leader. Starring alongside Humphrey Bogart's cynical Rick Blaine and Ingrid Bergman's conflicted Ilsa Lund, Laszlo embodied integrity, unwavering defiance against Nazi oppression, and selfless idealism. His character served as a moral compass, inspiring hope and sacrifice in a world grappling with tyranny. This pivotal role, released during the critical year of 1942, cemented Henreid's image as a symbol of wartime heroism and principled dedication to a cause greater than oneself, deeply resonating with audiences of the era.

Jerry Durrance in Now, Voyager (1942)

Also released in 1942, Now, Voyager presented Henreid in a distinctly different yet equally memorable romantic lead role as Jerry Durrance, opposite the legendary Bette Davis. In this poignant drama, directed by Irving Rapper, Henreid's character was a compassionate, married man who forms a profound and transformative connection with Davis's repressed Charlotte Vale. The film is celebrated for its emotional depth, its exploration of personal liberation, and most famously, the highly romanticized scene where Jerry lights two cigarettes simultaneously and hands one to Charlotte. This iconic gesture became an enduring cinematic symbol of their complex bond and shared emotional sanctuary, showcasing Henreid's versatility beyond the heroic archetype and revealing his capacity for tender and nuanced characterizations.

Beyond Acting: A Multifaceted Career

While his indelible acting roles in Casablanca and Now, Voyager garnered him international acclaim, Paul Henreid's contributions to Hollywood extended significantly into directing and producing. Following his prominent acting career, particularly from the 1950s onwards, he transitioned behind the camera, becoming a prolific director of television. His extensive directorial credits include numerous episodes for popular and critically acclaimed series such as Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Maverick, The Big Valley, Cheyenne, and Bronco, demonstrating his proficiency and versatility across different genres and formats. He also produced several film projects and authored his autobiography, "Ladies Man: An Autobiography," published in 1984, offering personal insights into his distinguished life.

Paul Henreid passed away on March 29, 1992, in Santa Monica, California, leaving behind a rich legacy as a versatile artist whose captivating performances and contributions behind the camera continue to be celebrated in classic cinema.

Frequently Asked Questions about Paul Henreid

What was Paul Henreid’s full birth name and origin?
Paul Henreid was born Paul Georg Julius Hernried von Wassel-Waldingau on January 10, 1908, in Trieste, which was then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and is now in Italy.
For which two film roles is Paul Henreid most famous?
He is most famously remembered for his iconic roles as Victor Laszlo in the 1942 film Casablanca and as Jerry Durrance in the 1942 romantic drama Now, Voyager.
Did Paul Henreid only act in films?
No, beyond his celebrated acting career, Paul Henreid also had a prolific career as a director, particularly in television. He helmed numerous episodes of popular TV series like Alfred Hitchcock Presents and Maverick, and also worked as a producer and writer.
What made the character of Victor Laszlo so significant in Casablanca?
Victor Laszlo symbolized unwavering resistance and moral courage against Nazism during World War II. His character's integrity, selflessness, and dedication to freedom made him a powerful representation of heroism and hope in the film's narrative.
What is the famous scene associated with Paul Henreid in Now, Voyager?
The most iconic scene features Paul Henreid’s character, Jerry Durrance, lighting two cigarettes simultaneously and handing one to Bette Davis's character, Charlotte Vale. This gesture became a timeless cinematic symbol of romance, connection, and emotional intimacy.