Actor George Maharis, who rose to fame in the 1960s with his role in the television series ‘Route 66’, has passed away at the age of 94. The news of his death was confirmed by his longtime friend and publicist, Alan Eichler.
Maharis was born on September 1, 1928, in Astoria, New York. He began his acting career in the 1950s and quickly gained recognition for his talent and good looks. He appeared in several films and television shows, but it was his role as Buz Murdock in ‘Route 66’ that made him a household name.
‘Route 66′ was a popular television series that aired from 1960 to 1964. The show followed the adventures of two young men, Buz Murdock (Maharis) and Tod Stiles (Martin Milner), as they traveled across the United States in a Corvette. The show was known for its beautiful cinematography and its focus on the characters’ personal journeys.
Maharis’ portrayal of Buz Murdock was widely praised for its depth and complexity. He brought a sense of coolness and toughness to the character, but also showed vulnerability and sensitivity. Maharis’ performance helped to make ‘Route 66’ one of the most beloved television shows of its time.
After ‘Route 66’, Maharis continued to act in films and television shows. He appeared in several popular shows such as ‘The Twilight Zone’, ‘Mission: Impossible’, and ‘The Streets of San Francisco’. However, he never achieved the same level of success as he did with ‘Route 66’.
Maharis was also known for his singing career. He released several albums in the 1960s and had a hit single with the song “Teach Me Tonight”. His smooth voice and good looks made him a popular performer, and he often appeared on television variety shows.
Despite his success, Maharis’ career was not without controversy. In 1967, he was arrested for lewd conduct in a public restroom in Los Angeles. The incident caused a scandal and damaged his reputation. Maharis later claimed that he was innocent and that the incident was a misunderstanding.
Maharis retired from acting in the 1990s and lived a quiet life in Beverly Hills. He was known for his love of art and literature, and he often attended cultural events in the city. He remained a beloved figure among fans of ‘Route 66’ and was always gracious to those who approached him.
Maharis’ death is a loss for the entertainment industry and for his fans. His talent and charisma will be remembered for years to come, and his legacy as one of the great actors of his generation will live on.
