Gisela "Gila" Freiin von Weitershausen, a celebrated German actress, came into the world on March 21, 1944, in Trebnitz, Lower Silesia, Germany, a region that is currently part of Trzebnica, Poland.
Born into an aristocratic family, von Weitershausen is the great-granddaughter of the illustrious former German Chancellor, Georg Graf von Hertling, whose notable legacy continues to be remembered and revered to this day.
As one of five siblings, von Weitershausen is part of a close-knit family unit, comprising three brothers and two sisters, all of whom share a strong bond and a deep sense of camaraderie.
As a result of her aristocratic heritage and her upbringing, von Weitershausen has always been surrounded by the finer things in life, and her family's rich history and cultural background have undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping her values, worldview, and artistic inclinations.
Von Weitershausen's acting career underwent a significant surge in momentum during the late 1960s, marked by her appearances in a multitude of German comedy films, often sharing the screen with notable actresses of her time, including the talented Uschi Glas. Her portrayal of a character in the 1960s film Engelchen, set against the vibrant backdrop of Swinging Sixties Bavaria, had a profound impact on her career, earning her the iconic nickname Engelchen, which was frequently utilized by the tabloid press for decades to come, becoming an integral part of her public persona.
Noted actress Heide von Weitershausen boasts a remarkable career spanning various genres and mediums, with a diverse array of roles that have showcased her impressive range as a performer. One of her most notable early credits includes a striking portrayal of a prostitute in the 1971 film "Murmur of the Heart", a film that has since become a classic of its era.
Furthermore, von Weitershausen has also made a significant impact on British television, with recurring appearances as the enigmatic character "Rowena" in the popular historical drama series "Arthur of the Britons". This role has undoubtedly helped to further cement her status as a talented and versatile actress.
However, it is perhaps her critically acclaimed performance in the 1981 film "Circle of Deceit" that is widely regarded as one of her finest hours. Directed by the renowned Volker Schlöndorff, the film boasts an impressive cast, including the talented Hanna Schygulla and Bruno Ganz, and von Weitershausen's contribution to the production is nothing short of exceptional.
The illustrious actress has consistently showcased her remarkable range and adaptability by appearing in a multitude of television movies, further cementing her status as a multifaceted and accomplished thespian.
Her personal life has been marked by significant milestones, including two marriages to esteemed individuals. Her first marriage was to the talented actor Martin Lüttge, a union that lasted from 1966 to 1972. Subsequently, she entered into a lifelong partnership with Hartmut Wahle in 1994.
Notably, between the years 1970 and 1973, she was in a romantic relationship with the acclaimed film director Louis Malle, with whom she shares a profound connection through their shared experiences. This partnership resulted in the birth of her son, Manuel Cuotemoc, in 1971.
