Berlin, Germany – A private funeral service was held Friday in Berlin-Mitte for Horst Krause, the celebrated actor best known for his long-running role as Police Chief horst Krause in the popular German crime series “Polizeiruf 110.” The actor died peacefully in Teltow,Brandenburg,in early September,aged 83,leaving behind a legacy spanning decades of stage and screen work.
A Career Rooted in east German Theater
Table of Contents
- 1. A Career Rooted in east German Theater
- 2. The Rise to National Fame with “Polizeiruf 110”
- 3. Beyond “Polizeiruf”: Film and lasting Impact
- 4. Remembering the Man Behind the Character
- 5. The Enduring Legacy of German Crime Drama
- 6. Frequently Asked Questions About Horst Krause
- 7. What impact did Horst KrauseS work at the Berliner Ensemble have on his advancement as an actor?
- 8. Actor Horst Krause Passes Away and Is Cremated in Berlin; Legacy Celebrated by Fans and Industry Peers
- 9. The Passing of a German Acting Legend
- 10. Early Life and Career in the GDR
- 11. Transition and Success in Unified Germany
- 12. Key roles and Performances
- 13. Tributes from Fans and Industry Peers
- 14. Awards and Recognition
- 15. The Legacy of horst Krause
Krause’s acting journey began in the German Democratic Republic, with early performances at the Karl-Marx-Stadt Schauspielhaus and the Dresden State Theater. He quickly became a familiar face on East German television, appearing in productions like “The Public Prosecutor has the Word.” His talent and dedication laid the foundation for a career that woudl resonate with audiences across a unified Germany.
The Rise to National Fame with “Polizeiruf 110”
It was his portrayal of the pragmatic and down-to-earth Police Chief Horst Krause on “Polizeiruf 110” that cemented his status as a national icon. Debuting in the late 1990s, the series gained prominence as a counterpoint to the long-standing “Tatort” series, offering a distinctive regional flavor and relatable characters. Ofen seen riding a motorcycle with his canine companion, Krause’s character embodied a unique blend of authority and approachability. The role mirrored the actor’s own first name, forging a strong connection with viewers.
Beyond “Polizeiruf”: Film and lasting Impact
Krause’s talent extended beyond television. He starred in the critically acclaimed film “Schultze gets the blues,” showcasing his versatility as an actor.His performances consistently demonstrated a warmth, directness, and wisdom that resonated deeply with audiences and colleagues alike. In 2023, German television viewership averaged 6.19 million viewers per program, demonstrating the enduring popularity of crime drama, according to Statista.
Remembering the Man Behind the Character
those who knew Krause personally remember him as a man of principle, deeply rooted in his values and unwavering in his character. He navigated the political and social changes following German reunification with grace and integrity. Friends and family emphasized his ability to connect with others on a human level, offering strength, guidance, and genuine understanding.
| Key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date of Death | Early September 2024 |
| Age at Death | 83 |
| Best Known Role | Police Chief Horst Krause in “Polizeiruf 110” |
| Early Career | Stage actor in GDR, appearances on GDR television |
Did You Know? Horst Krause’s character on “Polizeiruf 110” was intentionally designed to reflect the values and concerns of everyday citizens in brandenburg.
Pro Tip: For those interested in exploring Krause’s work, several episodes of “Polizeiruf 110” are available for streaming on ARD Mediathek.
The Enduring Legacy of German Crime Drama
The popularity of shows like “Polizeiruf 110” and “tatort” speaks to a longstanding tradition of crime fiction in Germany. These programs often reflect societal issues and provide a platform for exploring complex moral questions.The genre continues to evolve, attracting new audiences with its compelling narratives and relatable characters. According to a recent report by the German Federal Film Board (FFA), domestic productions accounted for 26.4% of box office revenue in 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions About Horst Krause
- What was Horst Krause most famous for? He was most famous for his role as Police Chief Horst Krause in the television series “Polizeiruf 110”.
- Where did Horst Krause begin his acting career? He started his acting career on stage in East Germany, performing at theaters in Karl-Marx-Stadt and Dresden.
- What was Krause known for as a person? He was known for his warm-heartedness,straightforwardness,and wisdom.
- What other films did Horst Krause star in? He starred in the acclaimed film “Schultze gets the blues.”
- How did Horst Krause’s character influence German television? His portrayal of Police Chief Krause offered a distinct regional outlook within the popular crime drama genre.
The passing of Horst Krause marks the end of an era for German television. His contribution to the cultural landscape will be remembered and celebrated for years to come. What are your fondest memories of Horst Krause’s performances? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
What impact did Horst KrauseS work at the Berliner Ensemble have on his advancement as an actor?
Actor Horst Krause Passes Away and Is Cremated in Berlin; Legacy Celebrated by Fans and Industry Peers
The Passing of a German Acting Legend
Horst Krause, a beloved German actor renowned for his roles in both the German Democratic Republic (GDR) and unified Germany, has passed away.He was 82 years old. Krause was cremated in berlin on October 15th,2025,in a private ceremony attended by family,close friends,and colleagues. The news has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans and fellow actors across the nation. Krause’s death marks the end of an era for German theater and film.
Early Life and Career in the GDR
Born in 1943 in Templin, Brandenburg, Krause began his acting career in the GDR. He quickly established himself as a versatile performer, capable of handling both dramatic and comedic roles.
* Notable GDR Roles: Krause became a household name through his appearances in popular GDR television series like Das kleine Fernsehspiel and Polizeiruf 110.
* Berliner Ensemble: A significant period of his career was spent at the renowned Berliner Ensemble, founded by Bertolt Brecht, where he honed his craft and collaborated with leading artists of the time.
* Stage Presence: He was particularly celebrated for his stage work,known for his nuanced portrayals and commanding presence. his performances in classical and contemporary plays garnered critical acclaim.
Transition and Success in Unified Germany
Following the fall of the berlin Wall and German reunification, Krause seamlessly transitioned into the new acting landscape. He continued to work prolifically, taking on diverse roles in film and television.
* Post-Reunification Films: Krause appeared in critically acclaimed films such as Good Bye, Lenin! (2003) and The Lives of Others (2006), demonstrating his ability to connect with audiences across generations.
* Television Successes: He starred in numerous successful German television series,including SOKO Wismar and ein starkes Team,solidifying his status as a prominent figure in German television.
* Character Roles: Krause excelled in character roles, frequently enough portraying complex and relatable individuals. His ability to imbue his characters with depth and authenticity resonated with viewers.
Key roles and Performances
Horst Krause’s career spanned decades,leaving behind a rich tapestry of memorable performances. Here are some of his most iconic roles:
- Inspector Ehrlicher (Polizeiruf 110): This role cemented his status as a leading man in East German television.
- Father in Good Bye, Lenin!: A poignant and touching performance that earned him widespread recognition.
- graf von Bothmer (The Lives of Others): A compelling portrayal of a Stasi officer, showcasing his range as an actor.
- Various Stage Roles at the Berliner Ensemble: His contributions to the Berliner Ensemble remain a cornerstone of his legacy.
Tributes from Fans and Industry Peers
The news of Krause’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and admiration. Social media platforms are flooded with tributes from fans, sharing their favorite memories of the actor and his work.
* Statements from Actors: Numerous German actors have publicly expressed their condolences, praising Krause’s talent, professionalism, and kindness.
* Director’s Reflections: Directors who worked with Krause have highlighted his dedication to his craft and his ability to bring characters to life.
* Fan reactions: Online forums and social media groups dedicated to German film and television are filled with heartfelt messages from fans, celebrating his contributions to the industry.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Horst Krause received numerous awards and accolades for his outstanding contributions to german acting.
* National Film Award: He was a recipient of the prestigious National Film Award for his role in Good Bye, Lenin!.
* berliner Theaterpreis: Krause was honored with the Berliner Theaterpreis for his remarkable stage performances.
* Lifetime Achievement Awards: Several organizations presented him with lifetime achievement awards recognizing his decades of dedication to the arts.
The Legacy of horst Krause
Horst Krause’s legacy extends beyond his impressive filmography and stage performances. He was a respected figure in the German acting community, known for his humility, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his craft. His work continues to inspire aspiring actors and entertain audiences across Germany and beyond.He leaves behind a void in the German cultural landscape, but his contributions will be remembered for generations to come. The impact of his work on german cinema and theatre is undeniable, and he will be deeply missed.
