Leonard G. Batanides was a stocky, general-purpose actor who became a prolific face on the small screen during the 1960s and 1970s. His journey into acting began with stand-up routines performed in front of fellow GIs in Europe during World War II.
After the war, Batanides received training in dramatic art at the Actors Lab in Los Angeles, followed by extensive stage experience. This foundation laid the groundwork for his subsequent success in the entertainment industry.
One of his most notable roles was as "Mr. Kirkland" in four installments of the popular "Police Academy" franchise. However, older viewers may remember him more fondly as the ill-fated U.S.S. Enterprise geologist, Lieutenant D'Amato, who met a rather gruesome demise (cellular disruption) in the Star Trek episode, "That Which Survives," which aired in 1969.
Batanides also made appearances in other notable shows, including "The Twilight Zone," where he played one of dictator Clemente's henchmen in the episode "The Mirror," which aired in 1961. He also appeared as the Mongol leader "Batu" in the "The Time Tunnel" episode "Attack of the Barbarians," which aired in 1967.
Throughout his career, Batanides regularly played heavies in shows like "I Spy" and "Mission: Impossible," or spoofed them, as seen in his role as a KAOS agent in "Get Smart," which aired in 1965.
Batanides retired from acting in 1989, bringing an end to his remarkable career.
