John Gottowt, born Isidor Gesang, was a multifaceted Austrian artist who made significant contributions to the world of theatre and cinema.
Born on June 15, 1881, in Lemberg, Austria-Hungary, which is now known as Lviv, Ukraine, Gottowt came from a Jewish family. He pursued his education in Vienna before joining the prestigious Deutsches Theater in Berlin in 1905. Under the guidance of the renowned director Max Reinhardt, Gottowt honed his skills as both an actor and director.
Throughout his career, Gottowt was actively involved in various Berlin-based theatres, showcasing his talent as a character actor and director. His foray into the world of silent films began with an appearance in Paul Wegener's 1913 production, "The Student of Prague."
In the 1920s, Gottowt continued to thrive in the film industry, starring in notable films such as Robert Wiene's "Genuine" (1920) and taking on the lead role in the early science fiction film "Algol." His portrayal of Professor Bulwer, also known as Abraham van Helsing, in F.W. Murnau's classic silent film "Nosferatu" (1921) remains a significant highlight of his filmography.
Gottowt collaborated with his brother-in-law, Henrik Galeen, on several film projects, but his career was tragically cut short in 1933 when he was banned from working as a professional actor due to his Jewish heritage. He subsequently relocated to Denmark and later moved to Kraków, Poland, where he attempted to lay low.
Sadly, Gottowt's life was cut short when he was murdered in 1942 by an SS officer while hiding in Wieliczka, Poland, disguised as a Roman Catholic priest.
