As an actor, Bruno Ganz played Death so many times, on stage and in front of the the camera. “When you play someone who is dying, you learn that it doesn’t help to prepare for your own death,” Ganz said in an interview with Die Zeit in 2010. Eight years later, the Swiss actor was diagnosed with colon cancer. Yesterday, he passed away in Zurich at the age of 77.
HE PLAYED HITLER, HAMLET AND HEIDI’S GRANDFATHER
Bruno Ganz was one of the most talented German-speaking actors. He was also an eclectic international star who was cast by Francis Ford Coppola, Wim Wenders, Ridley Scott, Spike Lee, Lars von Trier and Sally Potter. But Ganz remained very humble throughout his career. No scandals, no arrogance, no lack of respect towards journalists.
The most famous role of this amazing actor was as Adolf Hitler in “Downfall”. One particular scene depicting the Führer in apoplectic fury became a meme and spawned thousands of parodies online.
Movie lovers will remember Bruno Ganz for having played an evil and an angel, but also for having touched our hearts with many more starring roles.
