Born in Jerusalem in 1919, he emigrated to the U.S. in 1929, eventually studying at the Actors Studio. His career began in the 1940s, and he became a prolific character actor known for his versatility. He appeared in classic films such as "On the Waterfront" and "Some Like It Hot," and on television in "The Twilight Zone" and "Gunsmoke." Renowned for his intense performances, he retired from acting in the 1990s, later focusing on painting. He passed away in 2022 at the age of 102.