
Udo Kier, striking German actor from ‘My Own Private Idaho’ and ‘Ace Ventura,’ dies at 81
A German actor known for his icy gaze and unique screen presence, Udo Kier has died at 81. His partner, Delbert McBride, told Variety that Kier died Sunday in Palm Springs, California. Kier was a favorite of filmmakers like Andy Warhol and Lars von Trier. He appeared in over 200 films, including “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective” and the recent Brazilian thriller “The Secret Agent.” Kier’s breakout roles were in Warhol’s “Flesh for Frankenstein” and “Blood for Dracula.” He was introduced widely to American audiences in Gus Van Sant’s “My Own Private Idaho.” Kier had lived in Palm Springs since the early 1990s.