Karlheinz Böhm
Karlheinz Böhm
- Born: March 16, 1928, Darmstadt, Germany
- Died: May 29, 2014, Grödig, Austria
Karlheinz Böhm was an Austrian actor, film director, and philanthropist. He was best known for his roles in the films "Sissi" (1955), "The Great Escape" (1963), and "The Salzburg Connection" (1972).
Early Life and Career
Böhm was born in Darmstadt, Germany, in 1928. He began his acting career in the early 1950s, appearing in a number of German and Austrian films. In 1955, he starred in the popular romantic drama "Sissi", which made him a star in Europe.
International Success
Böhm's international breakthrough came in 1963, when he starred in the war film "The Great Escape". In the film, he played the role of Oberst von Luger, a German officer who is in charge of a prisoner of war camp. Böhm's performance in the film was highly praised, and it helped to establish him as a leading actor in Hollywood.
Later Career
Böhm continued to star in a number of films and television shows throughout the 1960s and 1970s. In 1972, he directed his first film, "The Salzburg Connection". In the 1980s and 1990s, he appeared in several Italian and German films.
Philanthropy
In addition to his acting career, Böhm was also a dedicated philanthropist. In 1981, he founded the Menschen für Menschen (People for People) charity, which provides humanitarian aid to people in Africa. He also served as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations.
Personal Life
Böhm was married four times. He had four children, including the actor Moritz Böhm.
Awards and Honors
Böhm received numerous awards and honors for his work in film and television. In 1963, he won a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "The Great Escape". In 1991, he was awarded the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany.
Death
Böhm died on May 29, 2014, at his home in Grödig, Austria. He was 86 years old.
