John Banner was an American actor who is best known for his role as Sergeant Schultz in the TV series Hogan’s Heroes, as well as appearances in The Untouchables and various films during the 1940s and 1950s.
Personal and Family Life
Born Johann Banner on January 28, 1910, in Stanislav, Poland, he was a Jewish refugee who fled to the United States due to the rise of the Nazis. He learned English phonetically after emigrating and quickly adapted to life in America. Banner had two spouses during his life: Illa Raudnitz from 1940 to 1950 and Renee Christine Gemenne Muhr from 1965 until his death in 1973.
Career Highlights
Banner gained fame for his role as the bumbling guard in Hogan’s Heroes, which aired from 1965 to 1971. Despite his comedic portrayal, he often reflected on the deeper connections to his past as a Jewish man during the Holocaust. His later work included roles in various television series and movies, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Death and Legacy
John Banner passed away on January 28, 1973, in Vienna, Austria, on his 63rd birthday due to an abdominal hemorrhage. He was interred at Mauer Cemetery in Vienna. Banner is remembered not only for his iconic role in Hogan’s Heroes but also for his resilience and ability to bring humanity to characters that mirrored the complexities of his own life experiences.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Wonderful Country | 1959-10-21 | Ben Sterner |
| It Started with Eve | 1941-09-26 | Party Guest (uncredited) |
| The Fallen Sparrow | 1943-08-19 | Anton |
| The Story of Ruth | 1960-06-17 | King Of Moab |
| 36 Hours | 1964-11-26 | Ernst |
| Hitler | 1962-03-21 | Gregor Strasser |
| Hogan’s Heroes | 1965-09-17 | Hans Schultz |
| The Chicago Teddy Bears | 1971-09-17 | Uncle Latzi |
| The Virginian | 1962-09-19 | Gus Schultz |
| Alfred Hitchcock Presents | 1955-10-02 | Train Conductor |