Emil Jannings was a German actor born on July 23, 1884, in Rottweil, Germany. He became one of the first major stars of the silent film era and was known for his powerful performances. Jannings gained international fame for his roles in films like The Last Laugh and The Blue Angel, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotions. In 1929, Jannings won the first-ever Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in The Last Command. His career spanned both silent and sound films, but he eventually transitioned to working in German cinema during the rise of the Nazi regime. Jannings passed away on January 2, 1950.