Claude Vernier, the stage name of Karl Anton Verk (Grotzingen, 20 July 1913 – Sens, 28 May 1996), was a German actor. Specializing in antagonist roles, he became an iconic face in French and international cinema, known primarily for his numerous portrayals of German officers in films set during the Second World War. His stern features and perfect command of both German and French made him the ideal choice for these characters. His filmography includes work in major productions, such as John Frankenheimer's *The Train* (1964), alongside Burt Lancaster. However, his most celebrated role remains that of the SS colonel in the highly successful comedy *La Grande Vadrouille* (1966) by Gérard Oury. Another of his notable performances was in Robert Enrico's drama *The Old Gun* (1975). Although he never won any major awards, Vernier is considered an essential figure in European cinema, a character actor whose face is inextricably linked to the imagery of post-war war films, consolidating a lasting cinematic archetype.