TV’s Delightful George Maharis Found Dead At 94 From Hepatitis

 

Introduction

George Maharis was born in Astoria, New York on September 1, 1928.  He was best known as Buzz Murdock in the popular TV Series Route 66.  Maharis was also a talented singer and released many albums including Where Can You Go For A Broken Heart (1965).

Television And Movies

Maharis gained recognition for his performances in Edward Albee's play "Zoo Story" and appearances on the television drama "Naked City." This led to roles in films such as "Exodus" in 1960. However, his role in "Route 66" catapulted him to stardom.

Following his departure from the series, Maharis starred in several films, including "Quick Before It Melts," "The Satan Bug," "Sylvia," "A Covenant With Death," "The Happening," "The Desperados," and "Land Raiders." In 1970, he returned to television with the series "The Most Deadly Game," but it lasted only one season.

In the following decades, Maharis continued to act, appearing in movies such as "Escape to Mindanao," "Murder on Flight 502," "Crash of Flight 401," and "Death in Space." He made guest appearances in popular TV series, including "The Bionic Woman," and "Murder, She Wrote." His last role was in the 1993 film "Doppelganger," starring Drew Barrymore.

Music Career

In the 1960s, Maharis signed a recording contract with Epic Records, and his debut album titled "George Maharis" was released in 1962. The album included popular songs such as "Teach Me Tonight" and "Love Me as I Love You." It achieved moderate success on the music charts.

Maharis released albums throughout the 1960s, including "Just Turn Me Loose!" (1963), "Portrait in Music" (1964), and "New Route: George Maharis" (1969). These albums featured a variety of songs.  Despite lesser recognition compared to his acting, Maharis had a devoted fan base who valued his singing.

Death

George Maharis passed away on Wednesday, according to a Facebook post by his friend and caretaker, Marc Bahan. The Hollywood Reporter, which initially reported his death, stated that Maharis died at his residence in Beverly Hills, California, after contracting hepatitis.

Resources:

George Maharis, star of TV's 'Route 66' in the 1960s, dies at 94 - ABC News (go.com)

George Maharis, star of TV's 'Route 66,' dies at 94 - Los Angeles Times (latimes.com)

‘Route 66’ Star George Maharis Dies at 94 (tvinsider.com)

The link to George's album is an Amazon Associates link.