Athletic German actor, usually seen as rugged characters in outdoor action films of the 1930's and 40's. He was discovered for films by fellow Bavarian Sepp Allgeier, having previously worked as a police radio operator. Rist was also a cross-country and jump skiing champion. Quite the adventurer in real life, Rist was most at home filming in far-flung and exotic locations around the world. He was married to the actress Carla Rust.
