German character actor, on stage from 1914 at the Wiener Volksbuehne. Had a distinguished theatrical career under Max Reinhardt at the Deutsches Theater in Berlin. Appeared in German silent films, often playing intense, dramatic roles. As a Jew, he left Germany in 1933, moving to the U.S. in 1938 and attaining American citizenship a year later. Acted under the nom de plume Ernest Dorian in English-speaking films, returning to Germany in 1947. Active in character roles, latterly white-haired, during the 1950's and 60's.