Telly Savalas, born Aristotle Savalas, kicked off his acting career in the late 1950s, appearing in various television shows and films. He honed his craft in small roles, gradually building his resume and gaining recognition for his charismatic presence and intense performances.

His big break came in 1972 when he was cast as the iconic character of Theo Kojak in the television series “Kojak.” The show, which aired from 1973 to 1978, catapulted Savalas to fame. His portrayal of the tough yet lovable New York City detective, known for his lollipop-sucking habit and catchphrase “Who loves ya, baby?”, made him a household name and a pop culture phenomenon.

Telly Savalas’s Net Worth in 2025

According to the latest available information, Telly Savalas’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be $10 million. This figure is based on his successful acting career and various business ventures.

Career

Telly Savalas was an American actor, best known for his role as Theo Kojak in the television series “Kojak”. He won an Emmy Award for this role in 1974. Savalas also appeared in numerous films, including “Birdman of Alcatraz” and “The Dirty Dozen”. His distinctive voice led to him being cast in many voice-over roles in animated films and television shows.

Other Ventures

In addition to his acting career, Savalas was also a successful businessman. He owned several restaurants, including a popular Greek restaurant in Los Angeles. He also invested in real estate and had a stake in a production company.

Assets

Savalas’s assets include several properties across the United States, including a home in Beverly Hills, California. He also owned a collection of classic cars, including a 1965 Ford Mustang and a 1957 Chevy Bel Air. His estate also includes a significant amount of jewelry and art.

Annual Income

Savalas’s annual income varied throughout his career. At the height of his fame, he was one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood. His annual income in the 1970s was estimated to be around $5 million. However, his income decreased in his later years as he took on fewer acting roles.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Telly Savalas

What was Telly Savalas’ net worth?

Telly Savalas’ net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.

How did Telly Savalas make his money?

Telly Savalas made his fortune through his successful acting career. He was best known for his role as Theo Kojak in the television series “Kojak,” for which he won two Emmy Awards. He also appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career.

When was Telly Savalas born?

Telly Savalas was born on January 21, 1922.

Where was Telly Savalas born?

Telly Savalas was born in Garden City, New York.

What was Telly Savalas’ real name?

Telly Savalas’ real name was Arthur Tellymous Savalas.

What was Telly Savalas’ cause of death?

Telly Savalas died of prostate cancer on January 22, 1994.

How old was Telly Savalas when he died?

Telly Savalas was 72 years old when he died.

What was Telly Savalas’ most famous role?

Telly Savalas’ most famous role was as Theo Kojak in the television series “Kojak.”

Did Telly Savalas have any children?

Yes, Telly Savalas had two children, a daughter named Candace and a son named Nick.

What was Telly Savalas’ height?

Telly Savalas was 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) tall.