Telly Savalas
Telly Savalas, an iconic actor, gained fame for his portrayal of the tough and charismatic detective Kojak in the popular 1970s TV series.
Aristotle Savalas
TV Actor
January 21, 1924
Aquarius
January 22, 1994
70
Garden City, New York
Telly Savalas, born in 1922, was a Greek-American actor who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Known for his iconic bald head and deep, resonant voice, Savalas captivated audiences with his portrayal of tough yet charismatic characters.
His career spanned over four decades, but it was his portrayal of Lt. Theo Kojak in the hit police drama series “Kojak” that brought him international fame. Savalas’ portrayal of the no-nonsense detective, complete with his signature catchphrase “Who Loves Ya, Baby?”, made him a household name and earned him a Golden Globe Award in 1975.
Beyond “Kojak,” Savalas showcased his versatility in numerous films, including “Birdman of Alcatraz,” “The Dirty Dozen,” and “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” He also lent his voice to the villain Ernst Stavro Blofeld in the James Bond film “Diamonds Are Forever.”
Savalas’ talent was recognized with numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album. He received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1983, cementing his status as a true Hollywood legend.
Off-screen, Savalas was an accomplished singer, releasing several albums throughout his career. He was also known for his athleticism, having played semi-professional football before pursuing acting.
Telly Savalas passed away in 1994, leaving behind a rich legacy of memorable performances. His impact on television and film continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.