Now Reading: Gus Savalas
-
01
Gus Savalas
Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | November 20, 1920 |
| Birth Place | Bronx, New York, USA |
| Parents | Christina (née Kapsalis) and Nick Savalas, Greek immigrants |
| Siblings | Telly, George, Ted, Katherine |
| Military Service | Survivor of Pearl Harbor, likely U.S. Navy during WWII |
| Notable Role | Detective Stavros in Kojak (1973–1978) |
| Other Works | Cops and Robbersons (1994), Mind Twister (1993), American Playhouse (1980) |
Early Life and Background
Constantine Socrates “Gus” Savalas was born in the Bronx to Greek immigrant parents. As one of five children, he and his brother Telly sold newspapers and polished shoes due to financial hardship.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | November 20, 1920 |
| Birth Place | Bronx, New York, USA |
| Parents | Christina (née Kapsalis) and Nick Savalas, Greek immigrants |
| Siblings | Telly, George, Ted, Katherine |
| Early Contributions | Sold newspapers, polished shoes to support family |
| Military Service | Survivor of Pearl Harbor, likely served in the U.S. Navy |
Career Overview
Gus Savalas pursued a career in acting, with his most notable role being Detective Stavros in the television series Kojak. Appearing in all 118 episodes alongside his brother Telly, Gus established a strong familial bond through their shared career.
| Production | Year | Role/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kojak | 1973–1978 | Detective Stavros, appeared in all 118 episodes |
| Cops and Robbersons | 1994 | Actor, specific role not detailed in sources |
| Mind Twister | 1993 | Actor, specific role not detailed in sources |
| American Playhouse | 1980 | Actor, specific role not detailed in sources |
Family Members and Connections
Telly and George Savalas, Gus’ brothers, were famous actors. The family’s Greek heritage and entertainment industry accomplishments demonstrate their cultural effect.
| Family Member | Relation | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|
| Telly Savalas | Brother | Actor, famous for Kojak, films like The Dirty Dozen |
| George Savalas | Brother | Actor, known for Kojak and Kelly’s Heroes, musician |
| Ted Savalas | Brother | Limited public information, part of the family |
| Katherine Savalas | Sister | Limited public information, not known in entertainment |
| Christina Savalas | Mother | Artist, native of Sparta, Greece |
| Nick Savalas | Father | Restaurant owner, Greek immigrant |
FAQ
Gus Savalas’s most renowned role?
Gus Savalas is best known for his portrayal of Detective Stavros in the television series Kojak, where he had a significant presence alongside his brother Telly.
When was Gus Savalas born?
Greek immigrants in the Bronx gave birth to Gus Savalas on November 20, 1920.
Did Gus Savalas serve in the military?
Yes, Gus Savalas survived Pearl Harbor and presumably served in the U.S. World War II navy.
How many siblings did Gus Savalas have?
Telly, George, Ted, and Katherine Savalas, Gus’ siblings, also contributed to the family’s entertainment history.
What other movies and shows did Gus Savalas star in?
Aside from his role in Kojak, Gus Savalas appeared in films such as Cops and Robbersons, Mind Twister, and had roles in American Playhouse.
