Even though he died more than three decades ago, Michael Conrad remained relevant to the film and television industry – here are some details about his life.
Until his death in 1983, Michael Conrad was a famous character actor who was best known for his office sergeant character on “Hill Street Blues”.
Michael Conrad Attends CDA Honor Evening February 26, 2015 | Photo: Getty Images
According to his IMDb profile, his appearance in the police television series earned him two “Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series” at the 1981 and 1982 Emmy Awards.
[“Hill Street Blues”] has won several distinctions for his realistic representation of the life of officers in uniform in an urban environment.
Michael Conrad as Sergeant Phil Freemason Esterhaus in episode 1 of “Hill Street Station” January 01, 1900 | Photo: Getty Images
The late actor then played the role of Michael Stivic’s uncle (played by Rob Reiner) in a 1971 episode of the series “All in the Family”. Noting that Michael died of cancer at 58, the New York Times recalled that the actor was born and raised in New York.
After serving in the United States Army field artillery, Conrad continued to attend City College before participating in theater workshops. He then traveled with productions such as “Mr. Roberts “and” A Streetcar Named Desire “before making unique appearances on several television shows.
Michael Conrad in one of the scenes as Sgt. Phil Esterhaus in episode 113 of “Hill Street Blues”, February 23, 1981 | Photo: Getty Images
Michael made his official Hollywood debut in 1963 and appeared in several films, such as “The Longest Yard”, “They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?” and “Castle Keep”.
Regarding the other actors of “Hills Street Blues”, Fox News noted that they have all moved on to other projects since the end of the show.
While Daniel J. Travanti (who played Captain Frank Furillo) participated in a series of theater projects outside Broadway, Michael Warren (who played officer Robert “Bobby” Hill) is now the father of four.
Michael Conrad as Sgt. Phil Esterhaus in “Hill Street Blues” – Season 1, episode 108 on December 01, 1980 | Photo: Getty Images
In fact, one of her children, Cash Warren, has been married to Jessica Alba since 2008. As for Betty Thomas, the 72-year-old woman who became known for her role as Sgt. Lucy Bates has appeared in films like “28 Days”, “The Brady Bunch” and “Private Parts”.
The show itself has won several distinctions for its realistic representation of the life of officers in uniform in an urban setting. According to its IMDb page, the theme music for “Hills Street Blues” won a Grammy after becoming a success in its own right.
Michael Conrad as Sgt. Phil Esterhaus in “Hill Street Blues” – Season 1 | Photo: Getty Images
Mike Post, who wrote the song, said he originally wanted the lyrics of the song to match the visuals presented to him. Mike finally decided to go in the opposite direction by creating a song that “took you away” from what was before your eyes.
