Paul Kemp was an American actor known for his roles in M (1931), Boccaccio (1936), and Amphitryon (1935). Born on May 20, 1896, in Bad Godesberg (now Bonn), Germany, he became a popular character comedian in German films during the 1930s and 1940s.
Personal and Family Life
Paul Kemp was the son of a music teacher and initially trained to be an architect. He studied acting under Louise Dumont in Düsseldorf, where he found success on stage with performances in “Charley’s Aunt” and “Menschen im Hotel.” During World War I, he served as an ambulance driver in France, showcasing his sense of duty and bravery.
Career
Kemp was one of the most beloved comedians of the 1930s, even briefly surpassing the popularity of Heinz Rühmann. Known for his tragic-comic roles, his best performance came in the film Amphitryon (1935), in which he played two very different characters. After World War II, he toured Austrian cities to earn a living before resuming his film career in 1947.
Death and Legacy
Paul Kemp passed away on August 13, 1953, in Bad Godesberg, Bonn, due to acute appendicitis. His contributions to German cinema, particularly in the comedy genre, have left a lasting impact on the industry. He is remembered as a versatile performer who captured the hearts of audiences during his era.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Musik für dich | 1937-12-10 | Titus, der Zauberer |
| Ein Windstoß | 1942-04-23 | Emanuele Rigattieri |
| Jenny und der Herr im Frack | 1941-11-25 | Willy Krag |
| Die Diebin von Bagdad | 1952-04-10 | Kalif Omar |
| Königin der Arena | 1952-12-19 | Fritz Zwickel, Faktotum Mahnkes |
| Salto Mortale | 1954-12-17 | Willi |
| Zauber der Bohème | 1937-01-01 | Pierre Casale |
| Capriccio | 1938-08-10 | Henri de Grau, sein Freund |
| Cyankali | 1930-05-22 | Kuckuck |
| Frech und verliebt | 1950-03-30 | Großvater Pernrieder |
| M – Eine Stadt sucht einen Mörder | 1931-05-11 | Pickpocket with Six Watches |
| Die Nacht ohne Sünde | 1950-11-14 | Friedrich |
| Der Raub der Mona Lisa | 1931-08-24 | Polizeileutnant |
| Amphitryon – Aus den Wolken kommt das Glück | 1935-07-18 | Götterbote Merkur / Diener Sosias |
| Glückskinder | 1936-09-19 | Frank Black, Reporter |
| In München steht ein Hofbräuhaus | 1952-01-21 | Otto Kackelmann |