An Austrian-born actress, she gained prominence in European cinema during the 1930s and 1940s. She later moved to the United States, where she transitioned to stage and screen roles. She is particularly noted for her portrayal of Edith Frank in the original Broadway production of "The Diary of Anne Frank" in 1955. Her career spanned both continents, and she became known for her versatility and emotional depth in acting. She balanced her career with family life, eventually retiring from acting.