The Biography

Franz Muxeneder (October 19, 1920 – January 3, 1988) was a German character and folk actor of Austrian origin, best known for his warm, comedic screen presence. After early careers as a mechanic, ski instructor, and civil servant, he turned to acting in the 1940s and trained in Salzburg, making his stage debut at the Salzburg State Theatre and later appearing regularly at the Salzburg Festival. From the 1950s onward, Muxeneder became a familiar face in German-language cinema, often portraying simple-minded or good-natured supporting characters in popular Heimat films, comedies, and later sex comedies. His extensive filmography includes classics such as Drei Männer im Schnee, Die Trapp-Familie, and Der brave Soldat Schwejk. He was also active in television and radio, remaining a beloved figure of popular entertainment until shortly before his death in 1988.