Gustav Fröhlich was a German actor known for his work in films like Metropolis (1927), Leb’ wohl, Christina (1945), and Seine Tochter ist der Peter (1955). He was a popular figure in German cinema during the 1930s and 1940s, and he also took on roles as a director and screenwriter.
Personal and Family Life
Gustav Fröhlich was born on March 21, 1902, in Hanover, Germany. He was married to Gitta Alpar from 1931 until their divorce in 1935 and later married Maria Hajek in 1941, staying together until her death in 1987. He had one child from his first marriage. Throughout his career, Fröhlich was known for his relationships with prominent women, including actress Lida Baarova.
Career and Career Challenges
Fröhlich began his career in the theater, performing in Stuttgart, Frankfurt, and Berlin before transitioning to film. He gained fame from his role in Fritz Lang’s Metropolis, which solidified his reputation as a leading actor. However, he faced challenges, including being banned from acting for two years after allegedly slapping Nazi propaganda minister Joseph Goebbels due to personal issues involving Baarova.
Death and Legacy
Gustav Fröhlich passed away on December 22, 1987, in Lugano, Switzerland, due to complications from surgery. His contributions to German cinema, particularly in the silent and early sound film eras, remain significant, and he is remembered as one of the leading actors of his time.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Metropolis | 1927-02-06 | Freder Fredersen |
| Die Sünderin | 1951-01-18 | Alexander |
| Rosen aus dem Süden | 1954-01-01 | Julien de Costa |
| Was Frauen träumen | 1933-04-19 | Walter König |
| Das verlorene Gesicht | 1948-11-19 | Dr. Thomas Martin |
| Asphalt | 1929-03-12 | Wachtmeister Albert Holk |
| Familie Buchholz | 1944-03-03 | Frauenarzt Dr. Franz Wrenzchen |
| Der große König | 1942-03-02 | Sgt. Treskow |
| Gloria | 1931-09-29 | Georg Köhler |
| Stadt Anatol | 1936-10-15 | Jacques Gregor |