Gert Heidenreich

Gert Heidenreich (born March 30, 1944, in Eberswalde, Germany) is a celebrated novelist, poet, and journalist. He studied German literature, theatre studies, sociology, and philosophy in Munich. Between 1967 and 1983, he worked as a playwright and journalist, primarily for radio stations, for Die Zeit, and the Süddeutsche Zeitung.

Since 1970, he has reported on his travels in Africa. And since 1972, he has also worked as a narrator for radio, television, and audiobook publishers. Heidenreich is a member of the Bavarian Academy of Fine Arts and from 1991 to 1995, he served as the President of the P.E.N. Center Germany, an influential association of writers fighting for freedom of expression..

He is particularly well known to the Tolkien community after narrating hundreds hours worth. Possessing a deep, sonorous baritone, he is famous for his “archaic-modern” balance – he makes the text feel like an ancient chronicle while keeping the character dialogue vibrant and distinct.

When it came time to record the “New Translation” (Neuübersetzung) of The Lord of the Rings by Wolfgang Krege, which aimed for a more modern, direct tone than the classic Carroux version. The production began with Achim Höppner (who had previously recorded The Silmarillion) however, after completing The Fellowship of the Ring, he sadly passed and Heidenreich was brought in to complete the final two volumes. From the success of this, he has recorded many more of Tolkien’s works.

WorkGerman TitleYear
The Lord of the RingsDer Herr der Ringe*2007
Leaf by NiggleElbenwald Blatt von Tüftler2009
The HobbitDer Hobbit2010
The Children of HúrinDie Kinder Húrins2010
The Adventures of Tom BombadilDie Abenteuer Des Tom Bombadil2010
Mr BlissHerr Glück2013
Beren and LúthienBeren und Lúthien2017
Unfinished TalesNachrichten aus Mittelerde2021
The Fall of NúmenorDer Untergang von Númenor2023
The Battle of Maldon and The Homecoming of BeorhtnothDie Schlacht von Maldon2024
The Fall of GondolinDer Fall von Gondolin2025

His contributions to German literature and audio have been recognized with numerous prizes:

  • Adolf Grimme Award: One of Germany’s most prestigious television awards.
  • German Audiobook Prize (Deutscher Hörbuchpreis): Specifically honored for his lifetime achievement and his Tolkien narrations.
  • Marieluise-Fleißer-Preis: For his literary excellence.