Willy Eichberger, a renowned Austrian actor, was born in Vienna, Austria, and later changed his name to Carl Esmond, adopting an ethnically nondescript identity. This decision allowed him to establish a successful acting career that spanned nearly five decades, both in Europe and the United States. Esmond's early education in drama was at the prestigious State Academy of Dramatic Arts in Vienna, where he honed his craft before making his film debut in the German movie Kaiserwalzer (1933).
Initially, Esmond rose to fame as a matinée idol in both Germany and Austria, starring in films such as Die Liebe siegt (1934),showcasing his romantic lead credentials. He then moved to London, where he continued to tread the boards in various plays, including "Victoria Regina," demonstrating his versatility as an actor. His repertoire included works by renowned playwrights such as Shakespeare and Shaw.
In the late 1930s, Esmond made a strategic career move to the United States, initially changing his name to Charles Esmond before reverting back to Carl. He eventually became an American citizen, marking a significant milestone in his career. Over the years, Esmond's smooth, mustachioed, and well-groomed on-screen presence made him a household name, as he appeared in numerous popular war-era films, often playing cultivated romancers, urbane villains, and nefarious Teutonic officers.
Esmond's filmography boasts an impressive array of co-stars, including Errol Flynn in The Dawn Patrol (1938),Gary Cooper in Sergeant York (1941) and The Story of Dr. Wassell (1944),Ray Milland in Ministry of Fear (1944),Susan Hayward in Smash-Up: The Story of a Woman (1947),and Gregory Peck in The World in His Arms (1952).
By the 1950s, Esmond had become a staple of television drama, portraying notable characters such as Victor Lazlo in a 1955 presentation of "Casablanca." He continued to make guest appearances in popular television series, including "77 Sunset Strip," "Maverick," "The Big Valley," and "McMillan and Wife." Esmond's last film appearance was in the forgettable Agent for H.A.R.M. (1966),after which he made sporadic appearances before retiring following his role in the TV mini-movie My Wicked, Wicked Ways: The Legend of Errol Flynn (1985),a biopic of his 30s co-star Errol Flynn.
Throughout his long and distinguished career, Esmond was married to literary agent Ruth Taub, who predeceased him. He passed away at the remarkable age of 102, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most beloved and enduring actors of his generation.
