Cologne, Germany -- German actor Frank Giering, who played a courteous psychopath in Michael Haneke's 1997 film "Funny Games" and starred in hit German crime series "Der Kriminalist," died Wednesday in Berlin. He was 38.
Born and raised in East Germany, Giering was well known and successful without ever becoming a star. In many ways, his career -- which began in theater before moving mainly to supporting, often small-screen roles -- resembled that of Christoph Waltz before "Inglourious Basterds." And like Waltz he was an actor's actor, often cited as an inspiration by a younger generation of performers.
"Giering is God," is how Robert Stadlober ("Krabat") put it.
But Giering also struggled with alcoholism and self-doubt, issues he discussed publicly. He once described himself as a "remnant" of the Gdr and not suited for modern life. German police are investigating the cause of death.
Giering has a series of small roles...
Born and raised in East Germany, Giering was well known and successful without ever becoming a star. In many ways, his career -- which began in theater before moving mainly to supporting, often small-screen roles -- resembled that of Christoph Waltz before "Inglourious Basterds." And like Waltz he was an actor's actor, often cited as an inspiration by a younger generation of performers.
"Giering is God," is how Robert Stadlober ("Krabat") put it.
But Giering also struggled with alcoholism and self-doubt, issues he discussed publicly. He once described himself as a "remnant" of the Gdr and not suited for modern life. German police are investigating the cause of death.
Giering has a series of small roles...
- 6/24/2010
- by By Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.