Wilfried Klaus' illustrious acting career commenced on the esteemed stage, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey that would span decades. His inaugural performance at the renowned Munich Volkstheater was merely the starting point, as he went on to dedicate six consecutive years to steady ensemble theater work at the same esteemed venue. During this period, he had the privilege of assuming the lead role in numerous celebrated classical works, further honing his craft and developing a deep appreciation for the plays of the illustrious Ludwig Thoma.
Throughout his career, Wilfried Klaus has consistently demonstrated a fondness for comedic roles, showcasing his impressive range and versatility as a thespian. Beginning in 1965, he collaborated with an array of esteemed directors, including Rainer Erler, Hans W. Geissendörfer, Franz Seitz, Helmut Dietl, Bernd Fischerauer, Günter Gräwert, Michael Verhoeven, and Wolfgang Petersen, among others, on a multitude of film and television projects.
However, it is his iconic portrayal of Chief of Detective Horst Schickl in the ZDF series SoKo 5113 that has arguably cemented his status as a beloved figure in German television. Wilfried Klaus remained true to the audience in this pivotal role for an astonishing 31 years, from 1976 to 2007, leaving an indelible mark on the world of television.