Home> Facts and Trivia > Stars > Telly Savalas
Telly Savalas Facts
| Sign | Aquarius |
| Born |
Jan 21, 1922 Garden City, NY |
| Died |
Jan 22, 1994 Universal City, CA |
| Age | Died at 72 |
| Total Facts | 59 |
Was good friends with: Ernest Borgnine, Burt Lancaster, Angie Dickinson, Don Rickles, Frank Sinatra, Michael Constantine and Shelley Winters.
Was involved in a serious car accident in Virginia during his hitch in the army.
Was originally slated to play Luke in Cool Hand Luke (1967), but the producers were unable to wait for him to complete his boat trip from Europe to the U.S. (Telly had a severe fear of flying). Therefore, 'Paul Newman (I)' played the role instead.
Was raised nearby the same city as Brian Keith.
Was the first choice for the role of Harry Orwell in the TV series "Harry O" (1973). He declined due to filming commitments in Europe. David Janssen was eventually cast in the role.
Was the second of 5 children.
When he worked as a lifeguard, he failed to save a man from drowning, and was troubled by the memory forever after.
Worked at the Garden City Theatre Center where he met and fell in love with Marilyn Gardner.
Would always refuse to talk about his service during World War II.