Ingrid Van Bergen

Ingrid van Bergen, born on June 15, 1931, in Free City of Danzig (now Gdańsk, Poland), is a prominent German actress known for her versatile roles in film, television, and theater, spanning several decades from the 1950s onwards. She gained significant recognition for her performances in the West German cinema of the 1960s. Some notable films in which van Bergen appeared include "Grabenplatz 17" (1958), "Crime After School" (1959), and "Endstation Rote Laterne" (1960). She transitioned successfully into television, with prominent roles in popular German TV series such as "Sonderdezernat K1" and "Tatort." One of her most memorable performances was in the 1960s Edgar Wallace film series, like "The Strangler of Blackmoor Castle" (1963). Her career, however, faced a significant downturn following her conviction for the manslaughter of her lover, Klaus Knaths, in 1977, leading to her imprisonment. She made a notable comeback later, including appearances in reality TV shows, such as winning "Ich bin ein Star – Holt mich hier raus!" (the German version of "I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!") in 2009. Despite her legal troubles and periods of public scrutiny, van Bergen's work has left a lasting impression on German cinema and television. She has received several accolades for her performances but is more recognized for her enduring presence and contributions to the entertainment industry.