A German-American character actor, he was born in Hamburg in 1884 and began his career on the stage before transitioning to film. Renowned for his comedic roles, he often portrayed pompous authority figures. He gained popularity in Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s, frequently collaborating with the Marx Brothers and appearing in classics like "A Night at the Opera" and "Stalag 17." His distinctive accent and timing made him a memorable presence in both comedic and dramatic roles.