Who was Björn Andrésen’s Wife Susanna Roman? Family and Life Story of ‘Death in Venice’ Star who died at 70

Swedish actor and musician Björn Andrésen, best known for his hauntingly beautiful role as Tadzio in Death in Venice, has died at the age of 70. The news of his death was confirmed by filmmaker Kristian Petri, who co-directed the 2021 documentary The Most Beautiful Boy in the World.

Björn Andrésen’s Wife and Family Tragedy

Björn Andrésen was once married to Susanna Roman, a poet and writer known for her sensitive and emotional verses. The couple shared two children — a daughter, Robine, and a son, Elvin. Sadly, their family endured a devastating tragedy when baby Elvin died at just nine months old due to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

The loss deeply affected Andrésen. Friends and colleagues described how the actor fell into a long period of grief and depression, which led to heavy drinking and isolation. In interviews, he often spoke about this chapter as the darkest time of his life.

Despite his pain, Andrésen’s love for his daughter and his art helped him continue. Over the years, he gradually returned to performing in films, television, and music.

His Acting Journey and Breakthrough Role

Born in Stockholm in 1955, Björn Andrésen’s childhood was marked by tragedy — his father died in an accident, and his mother took her own life when he was just ten years old.

At age 15, his life changed forever when Italian director Luchino Visconti cast him as Tadzio in the 1971 classic Death in Venice, based on Thomas Mann’s novella. The role made him an international sensation overnight.

During the film’s premiere, Visconti famously called him “the most beautiful boy in the world,” a label that would follow Andrésen throughout his life. While it brought fame, it also caused discomfort. In later interviews, he described disturbing experiences during the film’s promotion, saying he was treated “like an object” in elite social circles.

Later Career and Music Passion

After his breakout, Andrésen continued to work in both acting and music. He appeared in more than 30 film and television productions, including a memorable role in Ari Aster’s horror film Midsommar (2019).

Apart from acting, he was also a talented pianist and performed as a pop singer in Japan. He later joined the Sven Erics dance band, showcasing his musical side to audiences worldwide.

Legacy and Final Years

Björn Andrésen’s complex life became the focus of the 2021 documentary The Most Beautiful Boy in the World, co-directed by Kristian Petri and Kristina Lindström. Petri described him as “a brave person” who allowed filmmakers to explore both the beauty and pain of his life story.

The cause of his death has not been disclosed. However, his impact as an actor, musician, and survivor of personal tragedy will be remembered by fans across generations.