Actor/director, a former tobacconist. On stage from 1906, he was popular in operettas and comedies. A protégé of the composer Jean Gilbert, he was able to translate his success into films. From 1914 to 1919, he had his own series of 'Paulchen' comedies. In the 1920's, he alternated theatrical performances in Berlin with acting on screen, often in 'Militärklamotten' (military comedies). Between 1916 and 1943, Heidemann was also occasionally active as director or producer.