Charles Knetschke, later known as Brauer, was a remarkably prolific German character actor, renowned for his extensive work in film, television, and theater. Born in Germany, he adopted the surname Brauer in 1952, a change that would later become synonymous with his successful acting career.
Brauer's early start in the entertainment industry was at the tender age of eleven, and he went on to become a household name, particularly in Germany, for his iconic role as Hamburg's Chief Inspector Peter Brockmöller in the long-running television series Tatort, which premiered in 1970. This role, which spanned several decades, cemented his status as a beloved and respected figure in German television.
Beyond his work in Tatort, Brauer has had recurring roles in several other notable television series, including Abenteuer Airport, where he played customs inspector Bronne, and Samt und Seide, in which he portrayed the owner of a struggling textile business. His impressive range has also seen him appear in numerous guest roles, such as Derrick, Peter Strohm, and Rosamunde Pilcher.
Brauer's formal training in acting took place at the prestigious Max-Reinhardt Academy in Berlin, and he later honed his craft at the Deutsches Schauspielhaus in Hamburg, under the direction of Gustaf Gründgens. He eventually became a member of the ensemble for an impressive twenty years, during which time he appeared in a wide range of productions, including My Fair Lady, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, and Waiting for Godot.
In addition to his impressive stage career, Brauer has also lent his voice to various German dubbing projects, including works by Basil Rathbone, Adolphe Menjou, Donald Sutherland, Stacy Keach, and Roy Scheider. Since 1998, he has been the regular German language narrator for John Grisham's audio books, further solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile actor.
In his personal life, Brauer has been married twice, and since 1998, he has resided near Basel in Switzerland with his second wife, the accomplished stage designer Lilot Hegi. For over four decades, the couple has shared a home in this picturesque Swiss city, surrounded by the beauty of the Swiss countryside.
In 2020, Brauer released his co-written autobiography, Die Blaue Mütze, which offers a fascinating glimpse into his remarkable life and career.
