Telly Savalas

Telly Savalas was an American actor and singer best known for playing Lieutenant Theo Kojak in the television series *Kojak*.

Telly Savalas was an American actor and singer best known for playing Lieutenant Theo Kojak in the television series *Kojak*. Born in Garden City, New York, he became one of the best-known character actors of the 1960s and 1970s. His film work included *Birdman of Alcatraz*, *The Dirty Dozen*, and *On Her Majesty's Secret Service*.

Early life and education

Savalas was born in Garden City, New York, to Greek immigrant parents. He studied psychology at Columbia University and served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Acting career

Savalas began acting in television and film in the late 1950s and early 1960s, often playing tough or villainous supporting roles. His film credits included *Birdman of Alcatraz*, for which he received an Academy Award nomination, as well as *The Dirty Dozen* and *On Her Majesty's Secret Service*.

Kojak

Savalas became a major television star as Lieutenant Theo Kojak, first in the television film *The Marcus-Nelson Murders* and then in the series *Kojak*. The role became his signature part and made him widely recognizable.

Death and legacy

Savalas died in 1994 in Universal City, California, one day after his 72nd birthday. He is remembered as a distinctive character actor and one of television's most recognizable leads of the 1970s.