Heavy-set German character actor from a distinguished aristocratic background. Originally trained in law, he began directing for the stage in 1905 and later became a 'state actor' in classical roles, especially by Shakespeare (KIng Lear) and Kleist. He also appeared in numerous silent pictures from 1916, a solid purveyor of gravitas as generals, ministers, judges or landed gentry. He was the older brother of the internationally well-known actor
Friedrich von Ledebur.