Anni Ondra German-English actress Date of Birth: 15.05.1903 Country: Germany

1. Biography of Anna Sophie Ondráková
2. Early Career
3. International Success
4. Personal Life and Retirement
5. Selected Filmography

Biography of Anna Sophie Ondráková

Anna Sophie Ondráková, also known as Annie Ondra, was a German-English-Czech actress. She was born on May 15, 1903, in Tarnów, Austria-Hungary (now Poland). Ondra spent her childhood in Prague, where she attended a convent school.

Early Career

At the age of 16, Ondra began her career in the film industry by participating in Czech silent comedies. Her talent and potential were quickly recognized, and she soon caught the attention of German filmmakers. In 1928, she started appearing in German films, and in 1929, she made her debut in two English dramas directed by Alfred Hitchcock, "Blackmail" and "The Manxman." However, her accent was considered unacceptable, and her dialogues were dubbed by actress Joan Barry.

International Success

Despite the setback with her English-speaking roles, Ondra went on to star in over 40 films, becoming one of the most popular international actresses in Europe during the 1930s. Her versatility and captivating performances earned her critical acclaim and a large fan base.

Personal Life and Retirement

In 1933, Ondra married Max Schmeling, a German boxer, and retired from acting in 1957. The couple settled in the small town of Hollenstedt near Hamburg, Germany. They enjoyed a long and happy marriage until Ondra's death on February 28, 1987. She was buried in St. Andrew's Cemetery in Hollenstedt, Germany.

Selected Filmography

- "Knockout" (1935)
- "The Manxman" (1929) as Kate Cregeen
- "Blackmail" (1929) as Alice White
- "On That Stone" (1923) as Annie