Introduction
Werner Klemperer was a German-American actor, conductor, and singer who is best known for his role as Colonel Wilhelm Klink in the television series Hogan’s Heroes. Born in Cologne, Germany, Klemperer fled to the United States in 1935 to escape Nazi persecution. He went on to have a successful career in entertainment, but his legacy extends beyond his work in film and television. This post will explore Klemperer’s life, career, and legacy.
Early Life and Career
Escape from Nazi Germany
Werner Klemperer was born in Cologne, Germany in 1920. His father was the renowned conductor Otto Klemperer, and his mother was a soprano opera singer. With his Jewish heritage, Klemperer was targeted by the Nazi regime and was forced to flee Germany in 1935. He and his family settled in Los Angeles, where Klemperer went on to attend the University of California, Los Angeles.
Early Acting Career
After graduating from UCLA, Klemperer began his acting career in the theater. He appeared in a number of stage productions, including the original Broadway production of the musical Cabaret. Klemperer also made his film debut in the 1951 movie The Emperor Waltz, starring Bing Crosby. He went on to appear in a number of other films, including Judgment at Nuremberg and Operation Eichmann.
Television Career
Hogan’s Heroes
Klemperer is perhaps best known for his role as Colonel Wilhelm Klink in the television series Hogan’s Heroes. The show, which ran from 1965 to 1971, was a comedy set in a German prisoner of war camp during World War II. Klemperer’s portrayal of Klink, a bumbling and inept officer, earned him critical acclaim and a number of awards, including three Emmy Awards.
Other Television Appearances
After Hogan’s Heroes ended, Klemperer continued to appear in a number of other television shows, including The Love Boat, Murder, She Wrote, and The Twilight Zone. He also lent his voice to a number of animated shows, including Batman: The Animated Series and The Wild Thornberrys.
Death and Legacy
Death
Werner Klemperer died on December 6, 2000, at the age of 80. He had been battling cancer for several years prior to his death.
Legacy
Klemperer’s legacy extends beyond his work in entertainment. He was a vocal advocate for Holocaust education and worked to ensure that the atrocities committed during World War II were never forgotten. In addition to his advocacy work, Klemperer also served as a conductor for a number of orchestras, including the Buffalo Philharmonic and the San Diego Symphony.
Overall, Werner Klemperer was a talented actor and musician who left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and beyond. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of standing up against hate and intolerance.
FAQ
Who is Werner Klemperer?
Werner Klemperer was a German-American actor best known for his role as Colonel Klink in the television series Hogan’s Heroes.
What movies did Werner Klemperer appear in?
Werner Klemperer appeared in several movies throughout his career, including Judgment at Nuremberg, Operation Eichmann, and The Goddess.
When did Werner Klemperer die?
Werner Klemperer passed away on December 6, 2000, at the age of 80.
What was Werner Klemperer’s legacy?
Werner Klemperer’s legacy includes his iconic portrayal of Colonel Klink, which earned him two Emmy Awards, and his advocacy for Holocaust education and awareness. He also had a successful career on stage and in opera before transitioning to television and film.
