Mel Novak, a renowned action movie villain, has had the privilege of battling a diverse array of legendary Hollywood heroes throughout his illustrious career. One of his most iconic roles is that of Stick the Assassin in Bruce Lee's Game of Death (1978),which has cemented his status as a cult favorite among action film enthusiasts.
Mel's extensive filmography boasts a wide range of notable martial arts films, including Black Belt Jones opposite Jim Kelly, The Ultimate Warrior opposite Yul Brynner, An Eye for an Eye opposite Chuck Norris and Christopher Lee, Tom Horn opposite Steve McQueen, and Exit To Eden opposite Dan Aykroyd and Rosie O'Donnell. Furthermore, he has shared the screen with Mel Gibson in Greg Laurie's documentary Steve McQueen American Icon, which debuted at number three at the box office on its opening night, trailing only behind The Kingsman: The Golden Circle and Stephen King's It.
Mel's acting career began with a villainous role in Which Way to the Front, where he portrayed a Nazi opposite Jerry Lewis. His first villainous television role was as a hit man opposite Mike Connors and Abe Vigoda in the classic series Mannix, a role that marked his first on-screen kill.
Despite his formidable on-screen presence as the ultimate villain, Mel Novak is a true hero in real life. He has been inducted into five various Martial Arts Halls of Fame and has received numerous awards for his acting work, as well as humanitarian awards for his charitable endeavors. For over 30 years, Mel volunteered on Skid Row, counseling prisoners at some of the most dangerous prisons in the country, and he also volunteered with the Special Olympics.
