Within 14 days he developed the character of the Sandmännchen in 1959, which is famously known in Europe ever since. He was at the same time author, director, set designer, and animator for the Sandmännchen productions. Over time he added new characters to these shows: Professor Köpfchen, Paul und Stine, the Urvieh, and the Messemännchen (Mascot and symbol for the Leipzig Trade Fair).
In 1977 the PolishnewspaperKurier Polski awarded him the Prize of smiles on the suggestion of Polish children.
He worked in "his" studio until the German reunification, when the East German Television was disbanded, and he retired. He continued some work as an independent director and creator of puppets.
He was awarded the Bundesverdienstkreuz on 4 April 2005, which was given to him by the mayor of Berlin, Klaus Wowereit. He is one of the few persons who were honored with the Bundesversdienstkreuz and the East German Nationalpreis der DDR award.
Behrendt died on 26 September 2006 after a long illness.
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