Rudolf Schündler (1906-1988) was a prolific German actor, known for his long and versatile film career. With a distinctive and often melancholic or sly face, he established himself as an irreplaceable character actor.

He portrayed a wide range of characters, often authority figures such as doctors, professors, officials, or fallen nobles, with a touch of cynicism or subtle humor. His international fame is particularly associated with his collaboration with Rainer Werner Fassbinder. He appeared in several of his most celebrated films, including *The Marriage of Maria Braun* (1979), *Lili Marleen* (1981), and *Querelle* (1982). His ability to lend depth and humanity even to minor roles made him an iconic figure of German cinema.