Karl Kalkun - Actor Profile

Karl Kalkun

Acting
Freshness: Jan 25, 2026
10Total Films
8.0 Highest Rated
Born: Apr 9, 1927
Birth Place: Tartu, Estonia

About Karl Kalkun

Karl Kustav Kalkun (April 9, 1927 Tartu – February 21, 1990 Tallinn) was an Estonian actor. Karl Kalkun was born in Tartu as one of three children to. Karl Kalkun Sr., a stage manager of the Vanemuine theatre, and Emma Helene Kalkun (née Engelbär). He was the nephew of discus and hammer thrower Gustav Kalkun. In 1946, he graduated from secondary school at Tartu Secondary School No. 1 (now, the Hugo Treffner Gymnasium). In 1956 he graduated from Tartu State University's department of law. From 1951 until 1958, he worked at Vanemuine theatre. From 1958 until 1965, he worked at the Estonian Drama Theatre. From 1965 until 1978, he was employed at the at Estonian Youth Theatre. From 1978 until 1990, he worked at the Estonia Theatre. Besides theatre roles he played also in several films. Kalkun first married Estelle Piirand. The couple had one son, Andres. They later divorced. His second marriage was to Mare Kiisküla, with whom he had two sons, sports journalist Kristjan Kalkun and lawyer Kaarel Kalkun. The couple were still married at the time of his death. On 21 February 1990, Kalkun was at the Eesti Televisioon (ETV) studios in Tallinn during the filming of an interview and career and life retrospective with journalist and actress Anne Tuuling when he died of a heart attack, aged sixty-two.

Career Statistics & Market Influence

Analyzing the cinematic journey of Karl Kalkun reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 10 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.

Genre Dominance: Comedy

The majority of Karl Kalkun's filmography leans towards the Comedy genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.

The "Box Office" Signature

With a 30% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Karl Kalkun remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Laulu sõber, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.

Best Karl Kalkun Movies Ranked

Must-watch hits from Karl Kalkun's career based on audience ratings.

Complete Filmography & Success Status

Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Karl Kalkun.

YearMovieCharacterSuccessMore
2025 The Little Witch Evil Witch Flop Similar →
1987 Breakfast on the Grass (voice) (uncredited) Average Similar →
1986 Flamingo: The Bird of Luck - Flop Similar →
1978 Here We Are Ärni Hit Similar →
1978 Daisy Petal Game Constable (segment "Tattoo") Flop Similar →
1971 Lack of Wind Eesmaa (uncredited) Hit Similar →
1970 The Last Relic Rebel Leader Average Similar →
1969 Madness Two Faced Man Average Similar →
1968 Postmark from Vienna Militia Flop Similar →
1962 Laulu sõber Oskar Kallak, brigadir Super Hit Similar →

Karl Kalkun - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best movie of Karl Kalkun?

According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Karl Kalkun is "Laulu sõber" with a rating of 8.0/10.

How many movies has Karl Kalkun acted in?

Karl Kalkun has been featured in at least 10 major films throughout their career.

What are some other popular movies by Karl Kalkun?

Other notable films include "Lack of Wind", "Here We Are", and "The Last Relic".