Klaus Kinski was an American actor known for his intense performances in films like “Aguirre, der Zorn Gottes,” “Nosferatu,” and “Fitzcarraldo.” Born Klaus Günter Karl Nakszynski on October 18, 1926, in Zoppot, Free City of Danzig (now Sopot, Poland), he gained notoriety for portraying crazed characters and was infamous for his violent temper.
Personal and Family Life
Kinski was born to Susanne Lutze, a nurse, and Bruno Nakszynski, a pharmacist. He had a complicated personal life, being married four times and having three children, including actress Nastassja Kinski. His relationships were often tumultuous, reflecting his own volatile personality.
Death and Legacy
Klaus Kinski passed away on November 23, 1991, from a heart attack in Lagunitas, California, USA. Despite his controversial behavior, he left a lasting impact on the film industry, particularly through his collaboration with director Werner Herzog. Kinski’s performances continue to be discussed for their depth of emotion and eccentricity.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor Zhivago | 1965-12-22 | Kostoyed Amourski |
| Aguirre, der Zorn Gottes | 1972-12-29 | Don Lope de Aguirre |
| Woyzeck | 1979-05-25 | Friedrich Johann Franz Woyzeck |
| Nosferatu – Phantom der Nacht | 1979-01-17 | Count Dracula |
| Cobra Verde | 1987-12-03 | Francisco Manoel da Silva aka Cobra Verde |
| Paganini | 1990-05-25 | Niccolo Paganini |
| Fitzcarraldo | 1982-03-02 | Fitzcarraldo |