Gunnar Björnstrand

Knut Gunnar Johanson (13 November 1909 – 24 May 1986[1]) was a Swedish actor known for his frequent work with writer and director Ingmar Bergman.

After signing a contract with Svensk Filmindustri, he was offered mainly parts in comedies, including Bergman's Smiles of a Summer Night (1955).

In 1957, however, he appeared in two dramatic roles for Bergman, in The Seventh Seal and Wild Strawberries and, notably, Winter Light (1962).

In later years, due to the consequences of a stroke, Björnstrand avoided long-term contracts, and focused on theatre and television work.

His last film was Bergman's Fanny and Alexander (1982): since he was suffering from memory loss at the time, the production was a difficult one for him.

Björnstrand in 1940