Otto Sander spent his childhood and youth in Hanover and Kassel, where he also attended school and graduated from high school in 1962. After completing his military service in the navy, he pursued higher education, studying theater studies, German, literature, art history, and philosophy until 1967.
Sander made his theater debut in 1965 at the Düsseldorf Kammerspiele, followed by roles at the Heidelberg Theater and the Freie Volksbühne Berlin. From 1970, he was engaged at the Schaubühne am Hallerschen Ufer in Berlin, where he not only performed but was also involved in productions.
Concurrently, Otto Sander began his film career, making his screen debut in 1965 as the farmer's son and quarry worker in Roland Klick's "Ludwig." He attended drama school and appeared on the stage of the Munich Rational Theater, showcasing his exceptional cabaret skills and receiving praise for his witty, spontaneous, and eloquent performances.
In 1971, Sander married actress Monika Hansen, becoming stepfather to Ben and Meret Becker. The 1970s saw him gain national recognition as a film and television actor, with notable roles in plays and films such as Heinrich von Kleist's "Prinz Friedrich von Homburg" (1972),the "Optimistic Comedy" (1973),and "The Bakchen" (1974).
In the 1980s and 1990s, Sander continued to work consistently, appearing in films like "The Sky over Berlin" (1986) and "In the Far Away So Close" (1993),both with Bruno Ganz. He was also involved in various projects beyond acting, including presenting, dubbing, and radio speaking, as well as appearing at readings.
Throughout his career, Sander frequently collaborated with his foster children Ben Becker and Meret Becker, including in films like "Marlene" (2000) and "Sass" (2001). He continued to work in film, television, and theater until his passing, with notable roles in productions such as "Little Spoon" (2005),"The Last Band" (2007),and "Perfume" (2006).
Otto Sander passed away on September 12, 2013, in Berlin, leaving behind a legacy of outstanding performances and contributions to the world of entertainment.
