German actor Ulrich Muehe, who starred in the Oscar-winning movie 'The Lives of Others', has died at the age of 54.
Muehe's family confirmed today that he had died, just weeks after revealing that he was suffering from stomach cancer.
The actor starred in many German theatre productions and more than 30 domestic and foreign films.
He later won international acclaim for his portrayal of Gerd Wiesler, the Stasi officer in 'The Lives of Others', which won the Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film.
Muehe won Best Actor at the German Film Prize and the European Film Awards for his role in 'The Lives of Others'.
Speaking about the film, Muehe said in an interview: "Art can change your life. It holds a power that is so strong that it can melt even a dreaded Stasi officer."
Muehe is survived by his wife, actress Susanne Lother, and his five children.
