Udo Kier (born Udo Kierspe; Cologne, October 14, 1944) is a German actor known for his prolific career spanning European arthouse cinema and Hollywood productions. Emerging in the late 1960s, he achieved cult icon status thanks to his leading roles in the films produced by Andy Warhol and directed by Paul Morrissey, *Flesh for Frankenstein* (1973) and *Blood for Dracula* (1974). He solidified his fame by collaborating with key figures of the New German Cinema, such as Rainer Werner Fassbinder. Fundamental to his filmography is his long-standing collaboration with Danish director Lars von Trier, for whom he has acted in numerous works, including *Breaking the Waves*, *Dogville*, and *Melancholia*. A versatile actor and prolific character actor, he has appeared in over two hundred films, ranging from blockbusters such as *Armageddon* and *Blade* to independent productions. In recent years, he has gained significant recognition for his leading performance in *Swan Song* (2021), which earned him widespread critical acclaim and a nomination for Best Actor at the Independent Spirit Awards.