Born in 1892 in East Prussia, he became a notable character actor in German theater before fleeing to the U.S. in the 1930s due to rising Nazi power. He transitioned to Hollywood, where his distinctively warm and humorous persona shone in supporting roles. Known for his work in films like "Ninotchka" (1939) and "To Be or Not to Be" (1942), he became a beloved figure in classic cinema. His performances often brought depth and humanity to secondary characters, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.