An American actor known for his dynamic presence, he began his career on Broadway before transitioning to film and television. Rising to prominence in the 1950s and 60s, he often portrayed tough, streetwise characters. He appeared in movies such as "Houseboat" and "Dirty Harry" and had numerous TV roles, including a recurring part on "Perry Mason". His work earned him critical acclaim and several award nominations. Throughout his career, he remained a respected figure in the entertainment industry until his passing in 1995.