Metallica drummer Lars Ulrich is mourning the loss of his father, Torben Ulrich, a former Danish tennis player, musician, filmmaker, writer, and father of the music legend, who passed away at the age of 95. Lars Ulrich, 59, shared the news on social media, reflecting on his father’s 95 years filled with adventures, unique experiences, curiosity, boundary-pushing, questioning the status quo, tennis, music, art, writing, and “quite a bit of Danish nonconformism.” The announcement was accompanied by a series of photos, including a black-and-white portrait of Torben Ulrich, snapshots of his tennis career, and moments shared between father and son.
By Lia White
A Life of Diverse Achievements
Torben Ulrich, born in 1928 in Frederiksberg near Copenhagen, led a life marked by diverse achievements. He was active as a tennis player from the late 1940s, participating in all four Grand Slam tournaments and reaching the quarterfinals of the French Open in 1968. Beyond sports, Ulrich directed several documentaries and published books on music, showcasing his multifaceted talents and interests.
A Legacy in Tennis and Arts
Torben Ulrich’s legacy extends beyond his familial ties to Metallica. His career in tennis and contributions to the arts as a filmmaker and writer reflect a life dedicated to pursuing various passions and breaking conventional boundaries. His influence undoubtedly shaped his son Lars’s own path to becoming a music legend with Metallica.
Mourning a Multifaceted Icon
The loss of Torben Ulrich is felt not only by his family but also by the wider community that admired his work in sports, music, and arts. His life story serves as an inspiration for individuals to explore and excel in multiple fields, challenging the status quo and embracing nonconformity.
Remembering Torben Ulrich
As the world remembers Torben Ulrich, his legacy continues through the music of Metallica and the memories shared by those who knew him. His life’s journey from the tennis courts of Denmark to the cultural landscape of Seattle, Washington, where he spent his final years, paints a picture of a man who lived fully, embracing every opportunity to learn, create, and inspire.
Torben Ulrich’s passing marks the end of a life rich in experiences and achievements. As Lars Ulrich and fans around the world mourn his loss, they also celebrate the indelible mark he left on sports, arts, and the lives of those he touched. His story is a testament to the enduring impact of living a life filled with passion and curiosity.