German Actor Schmieder Dead At 40

Schmieder, one of Germany's best-known TV stars, passed away in Livigno, Italy this week (beg19Jul10) shortly before he was due to take place in a marathon bicycle race.

The actor's body was reportedly found at his motel by one of his cycling teammates. The cause of his death was not known as WENN went to press.

Schmieder began his career in theatre before finding fame as a TV detective in shows including Tatort, Soko Koeln, Alarm for Cobra 11 and Doppelte Einsatz.

He is survived by his wife and two children, according to Variety.com.