Iconic '70s Actor, Who Became a Major Television Star, Turns 83
Iconic '70s Actor, Who Became a Major Television Star, Turns 83
Nina DerwinThu, March 26, 2026 at 1:04 AM UTC
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(Photo by ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)
Beloved actor Paul Michael Glaser has a reason to celebrate.
Glaser turns 83 on Wednesday, marking another milestone in a long and dynamic career that includes acting in television and film as well as directing. Rising to prominence in the 1970s, he became one of the most recognizable faces of the era thanks to his work on the small screen.
He is best known for starring in Starsky & Hutch, where he played Detective David Starsky alongside David Soul’s Ken "Hutch" Hutchinson. The series, which aired from 1975 to 1979, became a defining show of the decade, blending crime drama with character-driven storytelling and a touch of humor.
Glaser's portrayal of Starsky, a street-smart, impulsive detective with a strong moral compass, helped anchor the show's success. His on-screen chemistry with Soul was a major draw for audiences, and the duo quickly became one of television's most memorable partnerships. The show's popularity also extended beyond its storylines, with its signature red-and-white striped Ford Gran Torino becoming an enduring pop culture symbol.
"Starsky and Hutch, like most iconic shows, belongs to a time and a period and you won’t be able to recreate that time or period, so you’re left with realizing a chemistry between two people," Glaser told The Hollywood Reporter. And that's of great value. It’s an example or a dynamic that we all like; we want to know a friend like that or function in the world like that."
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Beyond acting, Glaser expanded his career behind the camera, directing episodes of television and later helming films, including The Running Man. His work showcased his versatility and creative instincts beyond performance.
"People ask me, 'What’s your favorite: acting, directing or writing?' My answer: What life occurs. It’s what happens," said Glaser. "You never know when something will cross your path. I try to stay open to everything"
Over the years, Glaser has remained a respected figure in the entertainment industry, balancing acting, directing and advocacy work, particularly in raising awareness for HIV/AIDS following personal tragedy in his family.
As Paul Michael Glaser turns 83, his legacy as both a '70s television icon and a multifaceted creative force continues to resonate with fans old and new.
Related: Iconic '70s Television Star, With Best-Selling Book, Turns 91
This story was originally published by Parade on Mar 26, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
