**Lars Rudolph** (Wittstock/Dosse, 1966) is a German actor known for his distinctive stage presence and his portrayal of complex characters, often marginal or tormented. He began his career in theater, often collaborating with director Christoph Schlingensief.

He rose to international prominence thanks to cinema, particularly with Fatih Akin, starring in films such as Head-On (Gegen die Wand, 2004), where he gave an intense performance as the protagonist's brother, and Soul Kitchen (2009). His other notable performances include those in *Der freie Wille* (The Free Will, 2006) by Matthias Glasner and *Requiem* (2006) by Hans-Christian Schmid.

Rudolph stands out for his ability to infuse his characters with vulnerability and unsettling intensity. He often plays eccentric, solitary figures with difficult pasts, giving them depth and humanity. His lean physique and penetrating gaze make him a recognizable and beloved face of German arthouse cinema.