**Max von Sydow** (1929-2020) was a world-renowned Swedish actor, known for his long and prestigious career. His career is inextricably linked to Ingmar Bergman, with whom he made 11 films, including unforgettable roles in *The Seventh Seal* (Antonius Block, the knight who plays chess with Death) and *Wild Strawberries*.

After his Swedish success, he embarked on a prolific international career, becoming widely known to general audiences for his role as Father Merrin in *The Exorcist* and as the villainous Emperor Ming in *Flash Gordon*. With over 100 films to his credit, he often portrayed authoritative, noble, or unsettling figures, possessing an innate gravitas and an imposing screen presence. He was nominated twice for an Academy Award, including for *Pelle the Conqueror*.