ट्रिविया

He is a member of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD).

After studying medicine for some years, he attended acting lessons at the Folkwangschule in Essen.

Founded his own theater company in 1980.

Lives in Berlin.

Playing the character of "Georg Wilsberg", a private investigator from Münster, he became one of the city's best known representatives.

Grew up in Gelsenkirchen, he is a supporter of FC Schalke 04. However, he also is an honorary member of SC Preußen Münster (a team which currently, 2008/09, plays in Regionalliga West at the 4th level of the German football league system) due to his TV presence as "Wilsberg".

Does not own a driving license.