Emil Jannings Biography, Body Measurements, Relationship and More

Emil Jannings, born on July 23, 1884, in Rorschach, Switzerland, was a renowned English actor known for his remarkable performances in films such as The 39 Steps and Goodbye, Mr. Chips. Standing tall at 6′ (1m83), Jannings had a commanding presence on screen.

Jannings had a successful career in both stage and film, earning recognition as one of British cinema’s leading men in the 1930s. He was married to Ella Annesley Voysey, with whom he had two sons and a daughter. Jannings’ biography is a testament to his talent, dedication, and impact on the film industry.

Early Life and Education

Emil Jannings, born on July 23, 1884, in Rorschach, Switzerland, had a diverse heritage, with English, Polish, German, and French roots. He grew up in a family of intellectuals, as his father, Ernst Emil Donat, was a civil engineer, and his mother, Rose Alice Green, was a homemaker. Jannings attended Manchester Central Grammar School for Boys, where he developed a love for the arts.

At the age of 15, Jannings made a pivotal decision to pursue a career in acting. To overcome a stammer, he took elocution lessons and honed his skills in vocal projection. Jannings’ dedication and passion for the craft led him to embark on his stage career at just 16 years old. His early forays into acting laid the foundation for his future success.

Rise to Stardom

As Jannings delved deeper into the world of acting, he quickly gained recognition for his talent and exceptional stage presence. He joined Henry Baynton’s company in 1921 and later became a part of Sir Frank Benson’s company, where he honed his skills for four years. Jannings also ventured into provincial repertory theatre and showcased his versatility by performing in plays by renowned playwrights such as John Galsworthy, George Bernard Shaw, and Harold Brighouse.

His powerful performances in productions like Julius Caesar and Saint Joan earned him critical acclaim and solidified his reputation as a talented stage actor. Jannings’ commitment to the craft and his ability to bring characters to life on stage set the stage for his eventual transition into the world of film.

With his early life and education providing a strong foundation, Emil Jannings was well-equipped to embark on his journey as an actor. His diverse heritage and upbringing shaped his artistic sensibilities, and his early experiences on stage nurtured his talent and deepened his love for the craft. Little did he know that his passion for acting would catapult him to international fame and cement his legacy as one of the most iconic actors in British cinema history.

Stage Career

Emil Jannings’ stage career played a crucial role in shaping his success as an actor. In 1921, he embarked on his theatrical journey with Henry Baynton’s company, where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience. Subsequently, Jannings joined the esteemed company of renowned Shakespearean actor Sir Frank Benson, where he spent four transformative years. It was during this time that he solidified his craft, exploring a wide range of characters and genres.

Throughout his stage career, Jannings showcased his versatility by performing in provincial repertory theaters. He worked on plays by esteemed playwrights such as John Galsworthy, George Bernard Shaw, and Harold Brighouse. His exceptional talent and captivating stage presence garnered critical acclaim, leading to successful productions like Julius Caesar and Saint Joan. Jannings’ dedication and passion for the craft propelled him to become a renowned stage actor and director, setting the stage for his future success in the film industry.

Achievements:

• Started stage career in 1921 with Henry Baynton’s company
• Joined the company of Sir Frank Benson, a Shakespearean actor
• Performed in provincial repertory theaters
• Acclaimed performances in plays by John Galsworthy, George Bernard Shaw, and Harold Brighouse
• Became a successful stage actor and director

Film Appearances

Emil Jannings had a notable presence in the world of cinema, with his film appearances leaving a lasting impact on audiences. His talent for portraying diverse characters and his captivating screen presence made him one of the most respected actors of his time.

One of Jannings’ breakthrough film roles was in the 1932 movie Men of Tomorrow. However, it was his performance as Thomas Culpeper in The Private Life of Henry VIII in 1933 that garnered him international recognition. The film was a massive success and propelled Jannings into the spotlight, leading to numerous offers from Hollywood.

Despite the tempting offers from American producers, Jannings chose to continue his work in British cinema. He starred in acclaimed films such as The 39 Steps and The Ghost Goes West, showcasing his versatility as an actor and his ability to portray romantic leading men with charm and charisma.

Emil Jannings’ film appearances solidified his status as one of the most talented actors of his time. His performances continue to be celebrated and studied in the realm of film studies and cinema history.

Key Film Appearances:

• The Private Life of Henry VIII (1933)
• The 39 Steps (1935)
• The Ghost Goes West (1935)

The 39 Steps and Goodbye, Mr. Chips

Emil Jannings showcased his remarkable versatility and talent in two memorable films, The 39 Steps and Goodbye, Mr. Chips. Released in 1935, The 39 Steps, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, showcased Jannings’ ability to portray charismatic and adventurous characters with ease. The film follows the thrilling journey of Richard Hannay, played by Jannings, as he becomes entangled in a web of espionage and intrigue. Jannings’ captivating performance captivated audiences, solidifying his status as a leading actor of his time.

In 1939, Emil Jannings delivered another unforgettable performance in Goodbye, Mr. Chips. In this heartwarming film, Jannings portrayed the beloved schoolmaster Mr. Chips with depth and sensitivity. His portrayal of the character’s transformation over the years, from a rigid disciplinarian to a beloved mentor, earned him critical acclaim and the prestigious Academy Award for Best Actor. Jannings’ portrayal of Mr. Chips remains one of his most iconic and cherished performances.

Both The 39 Steps and Goodbye, Mr. Chips showcased Emil Jannings’ ability to bring characters to life, captivating audiences with his talent and screen presence. These films solidified his reputation as a versatile actor and earned him recognition in the film industry.

Key Points:

• The 39 Steps, released in 1935, showcased Emil Jannings’ ability to play charismatic and adventurous characters.
• Goodbye, Mr. Chips (1939) earned Jannings the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of the beloved schoolmaster.
• Both films solidified Jannings’ reputation as a versatile actor with a captivating screen presence.

Personal Life and Relationships

Emil Jannings’ personal life was relatively private, with limited information available beyond his marriage. He was married to Ella Annesley Voysey and together they had two sons and a daughter. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 1946.

Jannings was known to be a dedicated and hardworking actor, fully focused on his career and craft. He kept his personal relationships away from the public eye, allowing his work to speak for itself. While there may be little information about his relationships beyond his marriage, Jannings’ talent and dedication to his craft remain the defining aspects of his legacy.

Key Points:

• Emil Jannings was married to Ella Annesley Voysey.
• They had two sons and a daughter.
• Jannings kept his personal life private and focused on his career.

Health Issues

Emil Jannings, like many individuals, faced health challenges throughout his life. One of the main health issues he struggled with was chronic asthma. This condition, characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, can cause difficulty breathing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. For Jannings, asthma had a significant impact on his career, limiting his ability to take on certain roles and resulting in a reduced number of film appearances.

Despite his health struggles, Jannings remained dedicated to his craft and continued to deliver powerful performances. He was highly regarded for his talent and dedication, which allowed him to overcome the challenges posed by his asthma. Jannings’ ability to captivate audiences with his acting abilities was not diminished by his health issues.

Although chronic asthma may have presented obstacles for Jannings, his talent and determination prevailed. He persevered through his health challenges and left a lasting impact on the film industry with his memorable performances that continue to be celebrated today.

Legacy and Recognition

Emil Jannings left a lasting legacy in the film industry, with his talent and contributions to British cinema. His performances continue to captivate audiences and inspire actors and filmmakers alike. Jannings is remembered as one of the leading actors of his time, known for his versatility and captivating screen presence.

Recognition and Awards

• Emil Jannings received critical acclaim for his performances and was honored with numerous awards throughout his career.
• His most notable achievement was winning the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in Goodbye, Mr. Chips.
• This prestigious award solidified his place in cinematic history and recognized his exceptional talent and contributions to the industry.

Continued Celebrations

Jannings’ work continues to be celebrated and studied in film studies and cinema history. His films remain cherished and revered by cinephiles around the world. His impact on British cinema remains significant, cementing his status as one of the most iconic actors of his time.

Inspiring Future Generations

Emil Jannings’ legacy serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors and filmmakers. His dedication, versatility, and timeless performances remind us of the power of storytelling and the art of acting. Jannings’ contributions to the film industry will continue to be remembered and appreciated for generations to come.

Trivia and Interesting Facts

Emil Jannings, known for his remarkable acting career, had a few intriguing aspects to his life that are worth exploring. Here are some trivia and interesting facts about the renowned actor:

• Birth Name: Emil Jannings was born with the birth name Friedrich Robert Donat. He later changed it to Emil Jannings to sound more “exotic” and suit his career in the entertainment industry.
• Astrology Enthusiast: Besides his passion for acting, Jannings had a deep fascination with astrology. He was known to be a dedicated follower of horoscopes and believed in the influence of celestial bodies on human behavior.
• Acting as a True Calling: For Emil Jannings, acting was more than just a profession. He considered it his true calling and poured his heart and soul into every performance. His dedication and commitment to his craft were evident in the captivating characters he brought to life on screen.

Emil Jannings’ intriguing life and career continue to captivate film enthusiasts and historians alike. From his unique birth name to his love for astrology and unwavering commitment to acting, Jannings leaves a legacy that extends beyond his on-screen accomplishments. As we delve deeper into the world of Emil Jannings, we uncover the layers of a talented actor who forever shaped the landscape of British cinema.

Filmography

Emil Jannings had an impressive filmography, with a total of 19 films to his name. Throughout his career, he showcased his versatility and range as an actor, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry. His performances continue to be cherished and revered by cinephiles around the world.

Some of Jannings’ notable film credits include:

• The Private Life of Henry VIII
• The 39 Steps
• Goodbye, Mr. Chips
• The Ghost Goes West

In each of these films, Jannings delivered captivating performances that solidified his status as a leading actor. His on-screen presence, talent, and dedication to his craft shine through in every role.

Emil Jannings’ filmography showcases his incredible contributions to British cinema and his ability to bring characters to life on the silver screen. As one of the most iconic actors of his time, Jannings’ work continues to inspire and captivate audiences today.

Awards and Achievements

Emil Jannings, with his exceptional talent and remarkable performances, earned widespread recognition and numerous accolades throughout his career. His dedication to his craft and versatility as an actor garnered him critical acclaim and solidified his place in cinematic history.

Academy Award for Best Actor: Goodbye, Mr. Chips

One of Emil Jannings’ most significant achievements was winning the prestigious Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in Goodbye, Mr. Chips. Released in 1939, the film showcased Jannings’ immense talent and garnered him international acclaim. His portrayal of a beloved schoolmaster struck a chord with audiences, earning him this coveted honor.

Other Notable Awards

In addition to his Academy Award win, Emil Jannings received several other notable awards throughout his career. He was honored with the Volpi Cup for Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival for his performance in The Last Command (1928). Jannings also received recognition at the Locarno International Film Festival and the San Sebastián International Film Festival, among others.

• Volpi Cup for Best Actor – The Last Command
• Locarno International Film Festival – Best Actor
• San Sebastián International Film Festival – Best Actor

Jannings’ talent and contributions to the film industry continue to be celebrated and revered. His awards serve as a testament to his exceptional abilities and the lasting impact he made on British cinema and beyond.

Final Years and Legacy

During his final years, Emil Jannings faced health issues that affected his career. Chronic asthma prevented him from taking on certain roles and led to a reduced number of film appearances. However, Jannings continued to deliver powerful performances, showcasing his talent and dedication to his craft.

Emil Jannings’ legacy in the film industry remains everlasting. His impact on British cinema is significant, cementing his status as one of the most iconic actors of his time. His versatile performances and captivating screen presence continue to inspire actors and filmmakers alike.

Although Jannings’ active years may have come to an end, his contributions to the industry will always be remembered. His films are celebrated as classic examples of great acting, and his talent is recognized by cinephiles around the world. Emil Jannings’ final years were a testament to his passion and commitment to his art, leaving behind a lasting legacy that will forever be cherished.