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Johannes HeestersGerman actor, tenor singer, pop artist
Date of Birth: 05.12.1903
Country:  Germany |
Content:
Biography of Johannes Heesters
Early Life and CareerJohannes Heesters, a German actor, tenor singer, and entertainer, is considered one of the world's oldest actors, continuing to perform on stage and television despite being 105 years old. He was born in Amersfoort, the Netherlands, and was the youngest of four sons. He initially received his education at a business school but later became interested in acting and singing.
Acting Career
Heesters began his acting career in 1921 and made his debut on the big screen in 1924. He gained recognition for his performances in operettas and musical films, particularly in Berlin. He became known as "Yopi" by the Berlin audience. Heesters' most famous song is the musical number "Da geh’ich ins Maxim" from the operetta "Die Lustige Witwe" by Franz Lehár. He performed this number for 35 years, refining it to perfection.
Controversies
Heesters' career was not without controversy, as he was accused of having connections with the Nazis during the Third Reich. Despite remaining in fascist Germany and joining the NSDAP, Heesters continued to perform on the Dutch stage alongside thousands of Jewish refugees. He often performed for party leaders and even Adolf Hitler himself. These actions have caused ongoing criticism and a lack of forgiveness from his fellow countrymen.
Later Years
After the war, Heesters continued his career, performing in Vienna, Munich, and Berlin. He also appeared in Hollywood films and television shows in the 1950s and 1960s. In 1997, he was included in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest active actor. He continued to perform concerts and stage shows, even though he became nearly blind due to glaucoma and degeneration of the macula.
Personal Life
Heesters was married twice. His first wife was Belgian actress Louise Ghijs, who passed away in 1985. He then married German actress, artist, and photographer Simone Rethel in 1991, who is 46 years younger than him. He has two daughters from his first marriage. Heesters celebrated his 100th birthday in 2003 and his 105th birthday in 2008, continuing to perform and live in Bavaria, Germany.
Legal Disputes
In 2008, Heesters filed a defamation lawsuit against writer Volker Kuehn, who had made allegations in his book about Heesters' involvement with the SS at the Dachau concentration camp. The court did not find enough evidence to support Kuehn's claims, but due to the time that had passed, it was difficult to determine the truth of the matter. Heesters maintained his denial of performing for the SS troops.
