1. Life
Martin Weinek's early life and educational background laid the foundation for his diverse career in acting and, later, winemaking.
1.1. Birth and Background
Martin Weinek was born on June 30, 1964, in Leoben, a town located in Styria, Austria. His early life in Austria set the stage for his artistic pursuits.
1.2. Education
From 1983 to 1986, Weinek pursued formal training in drama, studying under Professor Peter P. Jost. This intensive education provided him with the foundational skills and knowledge necessary for his professional acting career.
2. Acting Career
Martin Weinek's acting career spans both theatre and film and television, with a notable and enduring role in a highly popular international series.
2.1. Theatre Activities
Weinek's professional acting career began in theatre in 1986, when he became part of the "Group 80" acting ensemble, performing at various theaters in Vienna. His theatrical engagements expanded to include performances at the Recklinghausen Festivals in 1987, where he appeared in "The Lechner Edi looks into Paradise" under the direction of Georg Mittendrein. From 1988 to 1989, he had acting commitments at the Jura Soyfertheater WienGerman and other theater stages. Beyond acting, Weinek also ventured into directing, participating in dramatic productions and their overall management. He held the artistic management position at the Hernalser City TheaterGerman from 1990 to 1991, showcasing his broader involvement in theatrical production and direction.
2.2. Film and Television Appearances
Weinek periodically took on roles in film and television productions throughout his career. One of his early film appearances was a small part as an elevator boy in the 1986 film Nachsaison (NachsaisonAfter-seasonGerman). In 1987, he portrayed a street-sweeper in the film Müllomania, directed by Dieter Berner. His television work includes the 1989 series Calafati Joe.
However, Weinek is perhaps best known for his prominent role as Inspector Fritz Kunz in the internationally acclaimed television series Inspector Rex. He was a key cast member from 1999 to 2004 and reprised his role from 2008 onwards. In this series, he was often noted for playing eccentric roles. Other film and television credits include the 2004 film Silentium, Grenzverkehr (2005), an episode of Unter weißen Segeln titled "Träume am HorizontGerman" in 2006, and an episode of Die Rosenheim-Cops in 2007, titled "Liebe bis zum Ende".
3. Winemaking
Beyond his acting career, Martin Weinek has established himself as a dedicated wine producer. He is assisted in this venture by his wife, Eva Weinek, who previously worked as a dramatist after completing her drama studies. The couple began their winemaking journey as a hobby in 1993. They own and operate a farm with 7.4 acre (3 ha) of vineyard situated near Heiligenbrunn, a town known for its wine region in Austria.
4. Filmography
The following is a list of Martin Weinek's notable film and television credits:
- 1989: Calafati Joe (TV series)
- 1999-2004, 2008-: Inspector Rex (TV series)
- 2004: Silentium
- 2005: Grenzverkehr
- 2006: Unter weißen Segeln (Episode "Träume am HorizontGerman")
- 2007: Die Rosenheim-Cops (Episode "Liebe bis zum Ende")
5. Personal Life
Martin Weinek is married to Eva Weinek. Eva, who has a background as a dramatist, collaborates with him on their winemaking business. Their marriage began in 1986.
6. Assessment and Impact
Martin Weinek is recognized for his multifaceted career as an actor, wine producer, entrepreneur, and entertainer. His portrayal of Inspector Fritz Kunz in Inspector Rex has given him international recognition, where he became known for his distinctive portrayal of often eccentric characters. His dual career, successfully balancing a public acting profile with a hands-on approach to winemaking, showcases his entrepreneurial spirit and diverse interests.