Born in Hungary in 1894, the actor began his career on the stage before transitioning to film in the 1920s. He gained recognition in Europe before moving to Hollywood, where he became known for his sophisticated and versatile performances. He starred in a variety of genres, including drama and thrillers, and won acclaim for his role in "Watch on the Rhine," earning an Academy Award for Best Actor. His career spanned over five decades, leaving a lasting impact on both American and European cinema.