Dagmar Manzel: German Actress with a Diverse Career

Early Life and Career

Dagmar Manzel was born in Berlin, Germany, on September 1, 1958. She began her acting career in the early 1980s, appearing in small roles in theater and television productions. Her breakthrough came in 1985 when she was cast in the lead role of the play "Die Präsidentinnen" at the Schaubühne am Lehniner Platz in Berlin.

Breakthrough and Recognition

Manzel's performance in "Die Präsidentinnen" earned her critical acclaim and established her as a rising star in the German acting scene. She went on to star in numerous other theater productions, including "Hamlet," "Macbeth," and "Medea." She also appeared in several films, including "Rosenstraße" (2003) and "The Edukators" (2004).

International Success

In 2006, Manzel made her international debut in the film "The Lives of Others." Her performance as a Stasi agent earned her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She continued to appear in both German and international films, including "Inglourious Basterds" (2009) and "A Hidden Life" (2019).

Theater Work

Despite her success in film, Manzel has remained committed to theater. She has continued to perform in leading roles at the Schaubühne am Lehniner Platz and other prestigious theaters in Germany and around the world. Her most recent stage appearances include "The Merchant of Venice" (2021) and "Richard III" (2022).

Awards and Honors

Manzel has received numerous awards and honors for her work. In addition to her Academy Award nomination, she has won the German Film Award for Best Actress three times (for "Rosenstraße," "The Edukators," and "The Lives of Others"). She has also received the Bavarian Film Award for Best Actress and the European Film Award for Best Actress.

Personal Life

Manzel is married to actor Ulrich Matthes. They have two children. She is known for her outspoken views on political and social issues, and she has been involved in several charitable organizations.