Horst Frank was a German actor who is best known for his roles in European westerns and thrillers. His notable films include “Haie und kleine Fische,” “Das Mädchen vom Moorhof,” and “Django, Prepare a Coffin.” He was recognized for his cold and intense performances, often portraying villainous characters.
Personal and Family Life
Born on May 28, 1929, in Lübeck, Germany, Horst Frank came from a family of artists; his father was a porcelain painter. He had two marriages, first to Chariklia Baxevanos from 1960 to 1961, which produced one son, and later to Brigitte Kollecker, with whom he married in 1979. He had a daughter named Désirée from his second marriage.
Career
Horst Frank began his acting career in theater and radio after studying acting, financing his education through various part-time jobs. He gained critical acclaim for his performances in war dramas and became well-known for playing psychotic villains in international productions, particularly spaghetti westerns. Despite his success in Europe, he remained relatively unknown in major American films, which limited his international fame.
Death and Legacy
Horst Frank passed away on May 25, 1999, in Heidelberg, Germany, due to heart failure, just a few days short of his 70th birthday. His legacy lives on through his diverse roles in film and television, leaving behind a notable impact in the genre of thrillers and westerns.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Das Mädchen Rosemarie | 1958-06-28 | Student |
| Haie und kleine Fische | 1957-09-26 | Heyne |
| Django, Prepare a Coffin | 1968-01-27 | David Barry |
| Bullets Don’t Argue | 1964-08-21 | Billy Clanton / Clayton |
| Tatort | 1970-11-29 | Various Characters |
| Derrick | 1974-10-20 | Various Characters |