Ole Ernst's journey in the world of performing arts began with his graduation from Odense Teater in 1967, shortly after which he was employed as a stage actor. His debut performance was in the role of Chino in Westside Story, which took place in 1965. Following his time at Odense Teater, Ernst made the transition to Det Kongelige Teater in 1969, where he continued to hone his craft as a stage actor until 1976.
During his tenure at Det Kongelige Teater, Ernst had the opportunity to perform in a wide range of classic stage plays, including Jeppe På Bjerget, Erasmus Montanus, Hamlet, and Amadeus.
In 1973, Ernst took on the lead role in Hans Kristensen's gangster film, Flugten, which was followed by the sequels Per in 1975 and Blind Makker in 1976. The trilogy of films went on to become extremely popular and are still widely regarded as some of the best Danish films ever produced.
The Per-trilogy played a significant role in establishing Ole Ernst as one of the finest actors of his generation, and he went on to star in a number of other notable films, including Hærværk in 1977, Terror in 1977, Mord I Mørket in 1986, Peter von Scholten in 1987, Epidemic in 1987, Sort Høst in 1993, Okay in 2002, and Rembrandt in 2004.
In 1994, Ole Ernst was once again welcomed back to Det Kongelige Teater, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his illustrious career.
