Telly Savalas

Telly Savalas

Born:January 21, 1922

Place of Birth:Garden City, Long Island, New York, USA

Died:January 22, 1994

Known For:Acting

Biography

Aristotelis "Telly" Savalas, born on January 21, 1922, left an indelible mark on the world of film and television during his remarkable career that spanned over four decades. Hailing from a Greek background, Savalas brought a unique charm and intensity to his performances that captivated audiences worldwide.

While he had a diverse array of roles throughout his career, Savalas is perhaps best remembered for his iconic portrayal of the tough, yet compassionate, Lieutenant Theo Kojak in the popular 1970s crime drama series "Kojak." His portrayal of the bald, lollipop-sucking detective became synonymous with his name and solidified his status as a television legend.

Savalas's talent extended beyond the small screen, as he also made a significant impact in the world of cinema. He received critical acclaim for his role in "Birdman of Alcatraz" (1962), earning him a nomination for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. His impressive filmography includes notable works such as "The Dirty Dozen" (1967), "Kelly's Heroes" (1970), and his memorable portrayal of supervillain Ernst Stavro Blofeld in the James Bond film "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" (1969).

Known for his distinctive voice and commanding presence, Savalas had a knack for bringing complex characters to life with depth and authenticity. His performances were marked by a raw emotional intensity that resonated with audiences and critics alike, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Beyond his acting talents, Savalas was also a gifted singer, releasing several albums throughout his career. His rich baritone voice added another dimension to his artistic repertoire, further showcasing his multifaceted abilities as a performer.

Despite his larger-than-life persona on screen, Savalas was known for his humility and down-to-earth nature off-camera. He formed genuine connections with his co-stars and colleagues, earning him a reputation as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Throughout his career, Savalas continued to push boundaries and challenge himself with a diverse range of roles that showcased his range as an actor. Whether he was playing a tough detective, a cunning villain, or a charismatic hero, Savalas brought a unique authenticity and charisma to each character he portrayed.

His legacy lives on through his timeless performances, which continue to captivate new generations of audiences. Savalas's impact on the world of entertainment is undeniable, and his contributions to film and television have solidified his status as a true Hollywood legend.

On January 22, 1994, the world bid farewell to a remarkable talent, but Telly Savalas's legacy endures through his unforgettable body of work, ensuring that he will always be remembered as one of the greats in the history of cinema and television.

Images

Telly Savalas
Telly Savalas
Telly Savalas
Telly Savalas
Telly Savalas

Filmography

Acting

The Dirty Dozen

The Dirty Dozen

Archer Maggott

1967

12 American military prisoners in World War II are ordered to infiltrate a well-guarded enemy château and kill the Nazi officers vacationing there. The soldiers, most of whom are facing death sentences for a variety of violent crimes, agree to the mission and the possible commuting of their sentences.
The Greatest Story Ever Told

The Greatest Story Ever Told

Pontius Pilate

1965

From his birth in Bethlehem to his death and eventual resurrection, the life of Jesus Christ is given the all-star treatment in this epic retelling. Major aspects of Christ's life are touched upon, including the execution of all the newborn males in Egypt by King Herod; Christ's baptism by John the Baptist; and the betrayal by Judas after the Last Supper that eventually leads to Christ's crucifixion and miraculous return.
On Her Majesty's Secret Service

On Her Majesty's Secret Service

Ernst Stavro Blofeld

1969

James Bond tracks his archnemesis, Ernst Blofeld, to a mountaintop retreat in the Swiss alps where he is training an army of beautiful, lethal women. Along the way, Bond falls for Italian contessa Tracy Draco, and marries her in order to get closer to Blofeld.
Escape to Athena

Escape to Athena

Zeno

1979

During the World War II, the prisoners of a German camp in a Greek island are trying to escape. They not only want their freedom, but also seek an ineffable treasure hidden in a monastery at the summit of the island's mountain.
The Muppet Movie

The Muppet Movie

El Sleazo Tough

1979

A Hollywood agent persuades Kermit the Frog to leave the swamp to pursue a career in Hollywood. On his way there, he meets a bear, a pig, a whatever – his future muppet crew – while being chased by the desperate owner of a frog-leg restaurant!
Kelly's Heroes

Kelly's Heroes

Master Sergeant "Big Joe"

1970

A misfit group of World War II American soldiers goes AWOL to rob a bank behind German lines.
Birdman of Alcatraz

Birdman of Alcatraz

Feto Gomez

1962

After killing a prison guard, convict Robert Stroud faces life imprisonment in solitary confinement. Driven nearly mad by loneliness and despair, Stroud's life gains new meaning when he happens upon a helpless baby sparrow in the exercise yard and nurses it back to health. Despite having only a third grade education, Stroud goes on to become a renowned ornithologist and achieves a greater sense of freedom and purpose behind bars than most people find in the outside world.
Cannonball Run II

Cannonball Run II

Hymie

1984

When a wealthy sheikh puts up $1 million in prize money for a cross-country car race, there is one person crazy enough to hit the road hard with wheels spinning fast. Legendary driver J.J. McClure enters the competition along with his friend Victor and together they set off across the American landscape in a madcap action-adventure destined to test their wits and automobile skills.
Cape Fear

Cape Fear

Private Detective Charles Sievers

1962

Sam Bowden witnesses a rape committed by Max Cady and testifies against him. When released after 8 years in prison, Cady begins stalking Bowden and his family but is always clever enough not to violate the law.
Capricorn One

Capricorn One

Albain

1977

In order to protect the reputation of the American space program, a team of NASA administrators turn the first Mars mission into a phony Mars landing. Under threat of harm to their families the astronauts play their part in the deception on a staged set in a deserted military base. But once the real ship returns to Earth and burns up on re-entry, the astronauts become liabilities. Now, with the help of a crusading reporter, they must battle a sinister conspiracy that will stop at nothing to keep the truth hidden.

Production