Michael Conrad, a towering figure in the world of character acting, was born in New York and would go on to leave an indelible mark on the television landscape. He is perhaps most famously known for his portrayal of the lovable but pompous desk sergeant Phil Esterhaus on the critically acclaimed series Hill Street Blues, a role that earned him not one, but two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 1981 and 1982.
Before his illustrious television career, Conrad served his country in the U.S. Army Field Artillery, and later attended New York City College and drama school to hone his craft. He made his television debut in 1955 and would go on to appear in a staggering 25 TV movies throughout his nearly three-decade long career.
In addition to his impressive television resume, Conrad was a familiar face on the big screen, appearing in films such as The Longest Yard in 1974. He also had a successful career on stage, early in his career, and was a regular presence on television, appearing in numerous episodes of popular shows.
Tragically, Conrad's life was cut short due to urethral cancer, which he succumbed to just five weeks after his 58th birthday during the filming of Hill Street Blues' fourth season. Despite his untimely passing, Michael Conrad's legacy lives on through his incredible body of work, and he remains a beloved figure in the world of television and film.
