Robert Urich

Robert Michael Urich (December 19, 1946 – April 16, 2002) was an American film, television, and stage actor, and television producer. He starred in a record 15 television series throughout his 30-year career. Urich began his television career in the early 1970s, with guest roles and short-lived series appearances. In 1975, he gained recognition for his co-starring role in the action/crime drama series S.W.A.T. He achieved further success as the lead role of Dan Tanna in the crime drama series Vega$, which aired from 1978 to 1981. Urich also had notable film appearances including Magnum Force (1973), The Ice Pirates (1984), and Turk 182 (1985). He portrayed the title role in the detective series Spenser: For Hire from 1985 to 1988, and hosted the documentary series National Geographic Explorer from 1988. Urich received two Golden Globe Award nominations for his work in Vega$, and was a CableACE Award recipient.