Susanne Lothar
Lothar at the Cinema for Peace gala in 2011. Wiki Commons

German actress Susanne Lothar died abruptly on Wednesday. The cause of death has not been revealed. With roles in such acclaimed films as "The Reader" and "The White Ribbon," Lothar cemented her status as one of the most respected actresses in Europe. Her career began in the 1980s and saw collaborations with renowned directors, including Michael Haneke and Stephen Daldry. The actress also appeared in stage and television roles.

Tragedy struck for Lothar in 2007, when her husband, Ulrich Muhe, died of cancer. Muhe appeared alongside his wife in the eerie cult drama "Funny Games." He also starred in "The Lives of Others," which won the Best Foreign Film Oscar in 2006.

Journalist and friend of the actress, Matthias Matussek, commented on her untimely demise.

"The theatre and cinema will be at a loss to know to whom they can now confide internal conflict, bravura, infinite vulnerability ... " he said.

Lothar leaves behind two children.