Jack Klugman
Jack Klugman
Jack Klugman (born April 27, 1922 – died December 24, 2012) was an American actor of stage, film, and television. He was widely recognized for his versatility and prolific career, spanning over five decades. Klugman is perhaps best known for his roles as Oscar Madison in the ABC sitcom The Odd Couple (1970–1975) and as Dr. Quincy in the NBC crime drama Quincy, M.E. (1976–1983).
Jack Klugman (Quincy, M.E.) Bio
Jack Klugman (April 27, 1922 – December 24, 2012) was an American actor best known for his iconic role as Dr. Quincy in the groundbreaking medical drama Quincy, M.E. (1976–1983).
As the passionate, no-nonsense forensic pathologist for the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office, Klugman brought a unique blend of grit, intellect, and moral urgency to the role. His portrayal helped elevate the series from a procedural crime drama to a platform for exploring social issues — from drunk driving and medical malpractice to elder abuse and corporate negligence.
Klugman's performance made Quincy a household name and a symbol of advocacy within the justice and medical systems. He was deeply involved in shaping the direction of the show, especially in later seasons, pushing for episodes that tackled real-world health and ethical concerns.
During the show's run, Klugman received critical acclaim, including several Emmy nominations, and used his rising influence to champion causes off-screen that mirrored Quincy's on-screen crusades.
Quincy, M.E. remains one of the earliest and most influential TV shows to fuse science, crime-solving, and activism — and Jack Klugman was the driving force behind that legacy.
Early Life and Career
Born Jacob Joachim Klugman in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Klugman was the youngest of six children of Jewish immigrants. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. After the war, he attended Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie Mellon University) on the G.I. Bill, where he studied drama.
Klugman began his acting career in the late 1940s, primarily on stage. He made his Broadway debut in 1952 and quickly established himself as a respected character actor. His early television work included appearances in anthology series like Studio One, Playhouse 90, and The Twilight Zone, where he delivered memorable performances in several episodes, including "Death Ship" and "A Passage for Trumpet."
Notable Roles
The Odd Couple (1970-1975)
Klugman achieved widespread fame for his portrayal of the slovenly sportswriter Oscar Madison in The Odd Couple, opposite Tony Randall's fastidious Felix Unger. The show, based on the Neil Simon play, earned Klugman a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series in 1971.
Quincy, M.E. (1976-1983)
Following The Odd Couple, Klugman took on the lead role in Quincy, M.E., where he played Dr. R. Quincy, a Los Angeles County Medical Examiner who often solved crimes through forensic investigation. The series was groundbreaking for its focus on forensic science and its advocacy for social issues, often driven by Quincy's passionate stance on various topics. Klugman's portrayal of the crusading medical examiner earned him four Emmy Award nominations.
Other Work
Klugman's extensive film career included roles in 12 Angry Men (1957) as Juror #5, and Goodbye, Columbus (1969). He continued to act in television movies, guest appearances, and stage productions throughout his later life.
Personal Life
Jack Klugman was married twice, first to Brett Somers from 1953 until her death in 2007 (though they separated in 1974), and later to Peggy Crosby in 2008. He was a passionate horse racing fan and owner, often seen at racetracks. In 1989, he was diagnosed with throat cancer, which severely impacted his vocal cords, but he remarkably recovered and continued his acting career, albeit with a huskier voice.
Death
Klugman passed away on December 24, 2012, at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy as one of television's most beloved and enduring actors.
Filmography (Selected)
12 Angry Men (1957) - Juror #5
Goodbye, Columbus (1969) - Ben Patimkin
The Odd Couple (1970-1975) - Oscar Madison
Quincy, M.E. (1976-1983) - Dr. R. Quincy
Diagnosis: Murder (1995) - Jack Klugman (guest appearance)
Video Appearances (Jack ala Youtube Archive)
This section aims to provide links to various video captures and archival footage of Jack Klugman that might be found on platforms like YouTube, showcasing his career both before and after his iconic role in Quincy, M.E.. These links would offer fans a visual journey through his diverse performances, interviews, and public appearances.
Early TV Appearances: Clips or full episodes from anthology series or early sitcoms.
Example: "The Twilight Zone: A Passage for Trumpet" (Full Episode/Clip)
The Odd Couple Highlights: Memorable scenes, bloopers, or interviews related to his time as Oscar Madison.
Example: "Oscar Madison's Funniest Moments"
Quincy, M.E.' Interviews & Behind-the-Scenes: Archival interviews where Klugman discusses the show, its impact, or specific social issues.
Example: "Jack Klugman on the Impact of Quincy, M.E. (1980 Interview)"
Public Service Announcements/Advocacy: Footage related to his off-screen activism, especially concerning health and social issues.
Example: "Jack Klugman's Public Message on Drunk Driving"
Post-Quincy Work & Interviews: Appearances in later roles, documentaries, or interviews about his life and legacy.
Example: "A Conversation with Jack Klugman (2005)"
Tributes and Memorials: Video compilations or tributes created after his passing.
Example: "Remembering Jack Klugman: A Life in Acting"
Die Harald Schmidt Show - 0035 - 1996-01-23: A clip featuring Jack Klugman, Vanessa Jung, and Nick Wilder on the German talk show.
Die Harald Schmidt Show - 0035 - 1996-01-23
Garry Marshall & Jack Klugman 1981: At the party celebrating the 200th episode of "Happy Days", Garry Marshall and Jack Klugman jokingly argue about Garry's Shows. Fun and funny.
Garry Marshall & Jack Klugman 1981
"The Odd Couple" Star Jack Klugman's Last Interview: Scott Feinberg chats with the actor Jack Klugman about his life and career, showcasing his voice affected by throat cancer.
"The Odd Couple" Star Jack Klugman's Last Interview
Jack Klugman discusses the beginnings of "Quincy ME" - EMMYTVLEGENDS: An interview where Klugman shares insights into the origins and development of his iconic series.
Jack Klugman discusses the beginnings of "Quincy ME" - EMMYTVLEGENDS
Jack Klugman talks about Odd Couple, Tony Randall, Quincy Part 1 of 4: Klugman discusses his experiences on "The Odd Couple" and the early days of "Quincy, M.E.," including his relationship with Tony Randall.
Jack Klugman talks about Odd Couple, Tony Randall, Quincy Part 1 of 4
Tony Randall & Jack Klugman On The Mike Douglas Show: Jack Klugman and Tony Randall's appearance on "The Mike Douglas Show" showcasing their famous chemistry.
Tony Randall & Jack Klugman On The Mike Douglas Show
Note: The links provided above are illustrative examples. Actual links would need to point to specific, publicly available video content.