German actor Hans Peter Korff has passed away at the age of 82, as confirmed by his wife, Christiane Leuchtmann, on March 9, 2025. Korff was renowned for his beloved roles on television, particularly as Siegfried 'Sigi' Drombusch from the popular family series Diese Drombuschs and postman Onkel Heini from the children's show Neues aus Uhlenbusch. He died quietly during the night, surrounded by the love of his family.
Leuchtmann announced her husband's passing through social media, stating, "I let you travel, even though it breaks my heart." She also paid tribute to her husband's artistic legacy, commenting on his ability to bring depth, humor, and lightness to numerous characters. Hans Peter Korff was one of Germany's most recognizable television figures, beloved by families across generations.
Korff's career began at the Hamburg Student Theatre in 1959, and he eventually performed over 160 film and television roles. His charm and versatility won him numerous fans, establishing him as one of Germany's busiest actors. According to Heikedine Körting, the head of the Hörspiellabel Europa and someone who worked with Korff until recently, he was widely admired for his enduring talent.
Most people fondly recall Korff's portrayal of Onkel Heini, the friendly postman from Neues aus Uhlenbusch, which aired from 1977 to 1982. His character was known for innocence and warmth, making him a cherished part of childhood for many. He later gained even greater fame as 'Sigi' Drombusch, the loving family father on Diese Drombuschs, which ran from 1983 to 1994. This role earned him the prestigious Goldene Kamera award alongside his co-star Witta Pohl.
Throughout his career, Korff was not only active on television but also dedicated to the theatre. He performed at notable institutions such as the Ernst Deutsch Theater and the Düsseldorf Schauspielhaus, remaining connected to his theatrical roots throughout his life.
He skillfully juggled various roles, including Commissioner Behnke in several episodes of the Berlin crime series Tatort and memorable parts like Onkel Hellmuth in Loriot’s popular film Pappa ante portas. One of his more recent roles involved lending his voice to Mr. Lincoln for the series Die drei ???, showcasing his versatility as both an actor and voice artist.
The impact of Korff's work extended beyond entertainment. He and Leuchtmann were active advocates against poverty among senior actors and made appearances and shared readings throughout Germany, often together.
The news of his death has left many reflecting on his contributions and the joy he brought to audiences. His son, Johannes Valentin Korff, expressed his admiration, stating, "He was and is a great role model for me." He acknowledged his father's impressive ambition, uniqueness, and character, all of which made him not only a great performer but also an inspiring person.
Korff's ability to connect with viewers through his characters made him exceptional. His extensive body of work and impactful performances have ensured he will not soon be forgotten. Whether it was through laughter or warmth, Korff's artistic contributions have left indelible marks on German television and film.
Reflecting on his life, it’s clear Hans Peter Korff embodied the spirit of dedication and passion for acting until his final days. The cultural icon he represented will surely be missed, but his legacy as an extraordinary storyteller remains, inspiring both current and future artists within the industry.