Happy Birthday, Eric Braeden

That’s because he was born on April 3, 1941, in Bredenbek, Germany, which means that this talented, veteran actor is turning 82 years old today! Born Hans-Jorg Gudegast, Braeden emigrated to the United States in 1959 and attended the University of Montana, Missoula.

His career began in 1961, with a role in the feature Operation Eichmann. Subsequent work included episodes of Combat!, The Man From U.N.C.L.E., 12 O’Clock High, Mission: Impossible, and The Virginian.

Between 1966 and 1968, Braeden appeared in every episode of the action and adventure series The Rat Patrol as Hauptmann Hans Dietrich. His other credits include theatrical films like Morituri, Dayton’s Devils, 100 Rifles, and Escape from the Planet of the Apes.

In early 1980, Braeden was hired to play the non-contract role of Victor Newman on the CBS daytime drama The Young and the Restless. The character was set to last for a minimum of eight weeks and no more than 26 weeks.

However, Braeden so impressed Y&R’s creator and head writer, William J. Bell, that he re-scripted the character’s fate (an abusive Victor was to have been shot dead by his wife, Julia) and insisted that Braeden be placed on a long-term contract.

Braeden has received eight Daytime Emmy nominations — and snagged a win in the Outstanding Lead Actor category. He also won the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Male Performer in a Daytime Serial.

Soap 24H would like to wish Eric Braeden a very happy birthday, and you can, too. Please send your best wishes for him in the comments below!