Biography
Who is Eric Braeden?
Early life and real name
Eric Braeden was born Hans-Jörg Gudegast on April 3, 1941. His birthplace was Bredenbek, a small village located in northern Germany where his father once served as the mayor. Upon moving to the United States, he first settled in New York City before relocating to Texas.
Career beginnings
Before adopting his stage name, the actor worked under the name Hans Gudegast. During the 1960s, he appeared in the television series Combat! As a German soldier. He also guest-starred on Twelve O'Clock High and The Man from U.N.C.L.E. One of his well-known early television roles was playing German Captain Hans Dietrich on the series The Rat Patrol between 1966 and 1968.
Transition to fame
The actor began using the name Eric Braeden for his starring role in the 1970 movie Colossus: The Forbin Project. This change happened after studio executive Lew Wasserman suggested that a German name would not be accepted for a lead in an American film. He chose the surname Braeden as a tribute to his hometown of Bredenbek.
The Young and the Restless
In 1980, he began portraying the business tycoon Victor Newman on the CBS soap opera The Young and the Restless. Although the character was initially planned for a 26-week run, the role became highly popular, leading to a long-term contract extension. He earned multiple Daytime Emmy Award nominations for this work and won the award for Outstanding Lead Actor in 1998.
Personal life and interests
Eric married his college sweetheart, Dale Russell, in 1966. Their son, Christian Gudegast, works in the film industry as a director and created the movie Den of Thieves. Outside of acting, he maintained an active lifestyle, including playing soccer for the club Maccabee Los Angeles, where he helped them win the 1973 National Challenge Cup. He also boxed at gyms in Los Angeles and participated in various tennis events.
Birthday and age
Eric Braeden was born on April 3, 1941, which makes Eric 85 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aries sign. Eric shares the date with 61 other famous people.
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