The actor giant who married a Croatian singer 48 years younger, but died soon after

Maximilian Schell, the Austrian-born actor whose career spanned decades and earned him international acclaim, passed away at the age of 87. Known for his profound performances and versatility, he was married to a 48-year-younger German singer of Croatian descent, a union that lasted until his death. Born in Vienna in 1930, Schell grew up surrounded by the arts. His mother was an actress, and his father was a poet and playwright. From an early age, he showed a deep interest in performance, even writing his first dramatic play at the age of ten. Though his parents initially discouraged his aspirations, believing he lacked the “right luck” to become an actor, Schell’s passion for the craft remained undeterred. Schell began building his career in the 1950s, working in Germany and gaining recognition for roles such as the deserter officer in the anti-war film Children, Mothers and Generals alongside Klaus Kinski. This role marked the beginning of his reputation for nuanced acting, blending sensitivity with strength. He later appeared in The Young Lions (1958), a film set during World War II, where he shared the screen with icons like Marlon Brando and Montgomery Clift. Despite being a non-native speaker, Schell delivered lines with remarkable precision, earning praise for his adaptability and talent. His breakthrough came with the 1961 film Nuremberg, based on the Nuremberg Trials. The role of defense attorney Hans Rolfe was awarded to Schell, despite the high-profile presence of Marlon Brando, who had expressed interest in the part. Director Stanley Kramer believed deeply in Schell’s potential, and the result was a performance that stunned critics and audiences alike. Schell won the Academy Award for Best Actor, becoming one of the few actors to win an Oscar while being listed fifth on the cast credit, a rare achievement that underscored his exceptional skill. Throughout his career, Schell continued to challenge himself, taking on diverse roles that showcased his range. He played Germans in war films, often portraying complex characters that required both emotional depth and physicality. Yet, he also portrayed entirely different personas, including the iconic character Đure Šarca in The Sarajevo Uprising directed by Veljko Bulajić. In this role, he demonstrated his ability to embody a wide array of personalities, from the conflicted soldier to the idealistic revolutionary. In addition to acting, Schell pursued directing and music. He directed several films, including First Love, The Pigeon, The End of the Game, and The Palace. His musical endeavors included work as a pianist and conductor, further highlighting his multifaceted talents. Among his notable collaborations were directors like Sam Peckinpah (The Wild Bunch), Carl Foreman (The Man Who Would Be King), and John Carpenter (The Vampire Chronicles). Schell's personal life was equally rich. He was married to his sister, Maria Schell, a fellow actress, for many years. Later in life, he married a 48-year-younger German singer of Croatian heritage, marking a significant chapter in his personal history. Their marriage, which lasted until his passing, reflected his enduring charm and connection to the performing world. Schell’s legacy continues through his body of work, which remains influential in cinema and theater. His contributions to film, stage, and music have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape, ensuring his place among the greats of the 20th century.