Lilian Harvey was a British-born actress and singer who gained popularity in Germany during the 1920s and 1930s. Here are some interesting facts about her:
Early Life: Lilian Harvey was born on January 19, 1906, in London, England. Her birth name was Helen Lilian Muriel Pape.
Move to Germany: Harvey's family moved to Germany when she was a child. She later became a German citizen.
Film Career: She achieved great success in German films, particularly during the golden era of German cinema in the 1920s. Her breakthrough role was in the film "Die keusche Susanne" (1926).
Collaboration with Willy Fritsch: Lilian Harvey often co-starred with actor Willy Fritsch, and the two became one of the most beloved on-screen couples in German cinema. They appeared in numerous successful films together.
International Success: Lilian Harvey's popularity extended beyond Germany. She also gained recognition in the United Kingdom and the United States. One of her notable English-language films is "Invitation to the Waltz" (1935).
Music Career: In addition to her acting career, Lilian Harvey was a talented singer. She recorded several songs, and her performances were well-received by audiences.
Exile during World War II: Due to her British background, Lilian Harvey faced difficulties during the rise of the Nazi regime in Germany. She left Germany in the late 1930s and settled in France.
Later Years: After World War II, Lilian Harvey struggled to revive her career. She made a few more films but never reached the same level of success as in the 1920s and 1930s.
Return to Germany: Lilian Harvey returned to Germany in the 1950s. However, her career did not regain its former glory, and she gradually withdrew from the entertainment industry.
Legacy: Despite the challenges in her later career, Lilian Harvey remains an iconic figure in German cinema. Her films, particularly those from the 1920s and 1930s, are still appreciated for their charm and entertainment value.
One of Lilian Harvey's famous songs is "Ich möcht' so gerne wissen, ob sich die kleinen Sterne küssen" ("I Would Like to Know if the Little Stars Kiss").