Werner Klemperer was an American actor, best known for his role as Colonel Wilhelm Klink in the comedy series Hogan’s Heroes (1965). Although he is often remembered for playing a bumbling German commandant, Klemperer was a skilled dramatic actor who also performed in various prestigious films.
Personal and Family Life
Werner Klemperer was born on March 22, 1920, in Cologne, Germany. He was the son of the famous conductor Otto Klemperer, and their Jewish family fled to the U.S. to escape the Nazis in the 1930s. Klemperer served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was married four times, with Kim Hamilton being his last wife until his death in 2000, and he had two children from a previous marriage.
Career
Klemperer became widely recognized for his portrayal of Colonel Klink on Hogan’s Heroes, where he insisted that the character would never succeed in his schemes. This role earned him five Emmy nominations, and he won the award twice. Beyond acting, he was also a talented violinist and conductor, narrating for major symphony orchestras throughout his career.
Death and Legacy
Werner Klemperer passed away on December 6, 2000, in New York City due to cancer. His legacy lives on through his memorable performances, particularly his comedic roles and dramatic portrayals that challenged the stereotypes of the characters he played. Furthermore, Klemperer’s unique combination of talent in acting and music has made him an enduring figure in American entertainment history.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Judgment at Nuremberg | 1961-12-18 | Emil Hahn |
| Hogan’s Heroes | 1965-09-17 | Wilhelm Klink |
| Houseboat | 1958-11-19 | Harold Messner |
| The Goddess | 1958-06-24 | Joe Wilsey |
| The Simpsons | 1989-12-17 | Colonel Klink (voice) |
| Batman | 1966-01-12 | Colonel Klink |