Mike Connors, American actor (b. 1925)

Krekor Ohanian (August 15, 1925 – January 26, 2017), universally recognized by his professional moniker, Mike Connors, was a distinguished American actor whose career spanned an impressive six decades. Born in Fresno, California, to Armenian immigrant parents, Connors left an indelible mark on both television and film, becoming a household name through his iconic portrayal of a tenacious private detective.

The Enduring Legacy of Joe Mannix

Mike Connors is preeminently celebrated for his starring role as the titular private detective Joe Mannix in the groundbreaking CBS television series Mannix. This popular show captivated audiences from 1967 to 1975, running for an impressive eight seasons and 194 episodes. Initially, Mannix was depicted as a private investigator working for a high-tech detective agency called "Intertect," a concept that quickly evolved to feature him as a more traditional, independent private eye. Connors' portrayal was notable for its physically demanding action sequences, many of which he performed himself, showcasing a rugged yet compassionate hero. The series was also distinctive for its innovative use of music, particularly the jazz-infused score by Lalo Schifrin, and its forward-thinking inclusion of Gail Fischer as Peggy Fair, Mannix's loyal and efficient African-American secretary.

Connors' compelling performance as Joe Mannix garnered significant critical acclaim, earning him a Golden Globe Award in 1970 for Best Actor – Television Series Drama. This award was the first of six consecutive Golden Globe nominations he received for the role, a testament to his consistent excellence. Furthermore, he secured four consecutive Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series from 1970 to 1973, firmly establishing his status as one of television's leading men during a golden era of dramatic programming.

A Versatile Career Beyond Mannix

While Mannix defined a significant portion of his career, Mike Connors' acting journey was rich and varied, showcasing his versatility across different genres and platforms. Prior to his breakout role, he starred in the short-lived but memorable series Tightrope! (1959–1960). In this series, Connors played an undercover agent, a unique premise for its time that focused on the psychological tension and dangers of living a double life. Later in his career, he returned to television in a leading role as Ben Slater in the ABC crime drama Today's FBI (1981–1982), a series that aimed to update the classic FBI procedural for a new generation of viewers.

Connors' extensive filmography further highlights his enduring presence in entertainment. He appeared in numerous films throughout his career, demonstrating his ability to transition seamlessly between big and small screens. Notable film credits include his early appearance in the suspense thriller Sudden Fear (1952), the romantic comedy Good Neighbor Sam (1964), the comedic drama Situation Hopeless... But Not Serious (1965), and the star-studded Western remake Stagecoach (1966). He also ventured into spy thrillers with Kiss the Girls and Make Them Die (1966) and later, in a significant turn, starred in and produced the horror film Too Scared to Scream (1985), showcasing his ambition beyond acting alone. Mike Connors passed away at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of iconic performances and a career marked by longevity and consistent appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mike Connors

What was Mike Connors' most famous role?
Mike Connors is best known for his iconic portrayal of private detective Joe Mannix in the CBS television series Mannix, which aired from 1967 to 1975.
Did Mike Connors win any awards for Mannix?
Yes, he won a Golden Globe Award in 1970 for Best Actor – Television Series Drama for his role as Joe Mannix. He also received five additional consecutive Golden Globe nominations and four consecutive Emmy Award nominations for the same role.
What other TV shows did Mike Connors star in?
Besides Mannix, Mike Connors also starred in the series Tightrope! (1959–1960), where he played an undercover agent, and Today's FBI (1981–1982), where he portrayed an FBI agent.
What were some of Mike Connors' notable film appearances?
His significant film roles included parts in Sudden Fear (1952), Good Neighbor Sam (1964), Situation Hopeless... But Not Serious (1965), Stagecoach (1966), and Kiss the Girls and Make Them Die (1966). He also produced and starred in the 1985 film Too Scared to Scream.
What was Mike Connors' birth name?
Mike Connors' birth name was Krekor Ohanian. He adopted his professional name early in his acting career.