Therese Giehse's affinity for the theatrical arts was evident from a remarkably early age. Despite her family's earnest efforts to redirect her ambitions away from the stage, she remained resolute in her pursuit of a career in acting. Her life was deeply intertwined with that of the renowned German writer Thomas Mann and his children, Erika and Klaus. Klaus, in fact, dedicated his acclaimed novel "Mephisto", a thought-provoking portrait of actor Gustav Gruendgens, to her in recognition of their profound bond.
Therese's association with the celebrated writer Bertolt Brecht was another significant aspect of her life. She had the distinction of being the first actress to bring his iconic play "Mother Courage" to life on stage. Born into a Jewish family, Therese made the courageous decision to flee Germany when the Nazi Party, led by Adolf Hitler, rose to power. Although Hitler was known to have a deep appreciation for her acting talents, she felt compelled to seek refuge in Switzerland, where she co-founded a cabaret with her close friend Erika Mann.
Following the war, Therese returned to Germany and embarked on a new chapter in her career, this time focusing on film. Her remarkable journey, marked by both personal and professional triumphs, serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft and her unshakeable resilience in the face of adversity.