Wild Facts Behind The Improbable Life Of 'Kojak' Star Telly Savalas
“Who loves ya, baby?” Could anyone but Telly Savalas have made that line so iconic? We don’t think so! The guy was amazing in everything from The Dirty Dozen and Kelly’s Heroes to On His Majesty’s Secret Service and Kojak. But it’s Savalas’ life away from the cameras that really has our heads spinning. And you’ll also be stunned when you discover the truth about the actor’s extended family – as well as his surprising connection to one of the world’s most beautiful women.
Lollipop lover
For most of us, of course, Savalas will always be the tough cop who loved a lollipop in Kojak. The show ran for five years in the ’70s and was enjoyed – probably still is – by people all over the world. But behind the scenes, Savalas was so much more than just Kojak. His life story would even make a good TV show itself!
All in a name
First of all, we have to talk about the actor’s name. And, no, you won’t see “Telly” on his birth certificate! It’s actually a slight tweak of his real first name: Aristotelis. “Because you can't see ‘Aristotle Savalas’ on a marquee now, can you?” the star told The New York Times in 1973. This could also give you a clue to his behind-the-scenes life.
Greek American
“Aristotle” is a pretty famous Greek name, after all. And Savalas’ parents constantly told him – and his four siblings – to be proud of his Greek heritage. So even though Savalas was born in Long Island, he learned to speak both Greek and English. It was this upbringing, too, that thrust the young man onto his unusual path to success.
Streetwise
You see, Savalas’ father lost his wealth in the Wall Street Crash of 1929. That meant the family were severely strapped for cash. Years later, Savalas even joked with The New York Times, saying that his acting career began when he had to lie to the gas man! But another global event kept Savalas from fulfilling that potential – for a while, anyway.
