Gene Barry: The suave Chief of Detectives in the 1960s series 'Burke's Law' | The Independent Gene Barry: The suave Chief of Detectives in the 1960s series 'Burke's Law' Saturday 12 December 2009 00:00 BST Click to follow The Independent Online As the suave and witty Los Angeles Chief of Detectives in Burke's Law, Gene Barry brought to television screens a policeman who turned up to crime scenes in style, sitting in the comfortably upholstered rear of a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce. The millionaire Amos Burke was also seen at home, in his luxurious mansion, where a string of beautiful women visited the eligible bachelor. Burke's Law (1963-65) was the tongue-in-cheek antithesis of established American crime dramas such as Dragnet, with its mundane but eminently watchable police procedurals, and The Untouchables, which presented a weekly bloodbath of murders and massacres. Amos Burke was born in "Who Killed Julie Greer?" (1961), the first episode of The Dick Powell Show, with Powell himself playing the detective.

When Barry's series began, it was notable for all of its episode titles starting "Who Killed..." and big-name guest stars such as Zsa Zsa Gabor, Cedric Hardwicke, Sammy Davis Jr, Dorothy Lamour, David Niven, Diana Dors, Mickey Rooney, Cesar Romero and Frankie Laine. "This ain't gonna be no Mickey Spillane drama," the Burke's Law producer, Aaron Spelling, announced. "There'll be no hoods in it. The criminals will be the kind who prey on high society in the grand manner. You won't see any violence, either. We're doing something that's always been done in the cinema – shooting for glamour and forgetting about being too believable." Such glitz brought wordwide fame, as well as a 1965 Golden Globe Best Actor award, but he later expressed some regret at becoming typecast as a dapper character. "I have not been able to play just an ordinary human being," he said. "They don't give me those roles – a father, a grandfather, a man who is not the elegant head of an industry.

I didn't like it much – the fact that I trapped myself or got entrapped in that type of performance." Seeking to capitalise on the success of the James Bond films and the television series The Man from U.N.C.L.E., the final season of the crime drama was retitled Amos Burke – Secret Agent (1965-66), with Barry's character working for US Intelligence. Three decades later, with fewer jobs being offered to him, the actor reprised the role – working once more as Chief of Detectives – for 27 new episodes of Burke's Law (1994-95). In between, Barry played another agent working for US Intelligence, Gene Bradley, in the less successful British-made action series The Adventurer (1972-73). Described by one critic as "a knight in designer clothing", Bradley was a film star who donned various disguises as he jetted around the world rescuing threatened women, defecting scientists and others. However, even location filming in Europe failed to save the programme, which was dropped in the United States after two episodes.

Barry was born Eugene Klass in New York City in 1919, the son of a violinist father and singer-actress mother, and had early ambitions to act himself after playing Bluebeard, wearing home-made pantaloons and turban, and an absorbent-cotton beard dipped in ink, in a school production. While attending private schools in New York he also learned to play the violin but gave up after breaking his arm and switched to singing, performing in clubs and choirs. His baritone voice led him to be awarded a singing scholarship to the Chatham Square School of Music. Then came a job performing on a weekly radio show and he changed his professional name to Gene Barry, borrowing from his actor idol John Barrymore's surname. Still determined to act, he joined a company touring with the play Pins and Needles in 1940 and within two years was making his Broadway début as Captain Paul Duval in a short-lived revival of the musical The New Moon (1942).

But he quickly bounced back as Falke – known as "the Bat" – in the operetta Rosalinda (44th Street Theatre, Imperial Theatre and 46th Street Theatre, 1942-44), based on Die Fledermaus. A string of Broadway roles followed over the next 10 years. After travelling from New York to Los Angeles in 1951, Barry landed a film contract with Paramount at $1,000 a week and made his big-screen début as a nuclear physicist in The Atomic City (1952). He was a scientist again in his best-remembered film role, as Dr Clayton Forrester, in The War of the Worlds (1953). But television became the medium in which Barry made his mark. Following his appearance in an episode of the suspense series The Clock (1950), he worked his way up the cast list, via programmes such as Alfred Hitchcock Presents (1955), to play the PE teacher Gene Talbot during the run of the sitcom Our Miss Brooks (1955-6).

Then came the title role of the suave, dapper, Arizona gambler-lawman, with a black derby, pinstriped suit, gold vest and a sword disguised as a gold-tipped cane, in the Western series Bat Masterson (1958-61). Masterson, "the fastest cane in the West", who also carried a gun, was a 19th-century former Dodge City sheriff – and the character established Barry's line in debonair roles. Following Burke's Law, he was cast as the snappily dressed publishing tycoon Glenn Howard in The Name of the Game (1968-71), a lavishly made series that rotated Barry, Tony Franciosa (as a journalist) and Robert Stack (as a senior editor) in a three-weekly cycle of stories. When leading roles dried up, Barry made guest appearances in programmes such as Fantasy Island (1978, 1981), The Twilight Zone (1987) and Murder, She Wrote (1989).

Returning to the stage, he played the gay boulevardier Georges in the original Broadway production of La Cage aux Folles (Palace Theatre, 1983-84), before taking the musical to Los Angeles and San Francisco (both 1984), then going back to the New York show (1986). He made a cameo appearance in the 2005 War of the Worlds film remake by Steven Spielberg, who had previously directed him in an episode of The Name of the Game. Barry's wife of 59 years, Betty Kalb – who acted under the name Julie Carson – died in 2003. Eugene Klass (Gene Barry), actor: born New York City 14 June 1919; married 1944 Betty Kalb (died 2003; two sons, one adopted daughter); died Los Angeles 9 December 2009.

More about: The Gene Barry Picture Pages Background: “My earliest dreams were of acting and I have never considered anything else.” Gene Barry American actor Gene Barry (born in 1919, died in 2009) began his career on the small screen in the 1950s when he won his first regular role of Gene Talbot in the last season of the CBS sitcom “Our Miss Brooks” (1955-1956). He then starred as William Barclay 'Bat' Masterson on the western series “Bat Masterson” (NBC, 1958-1961) before gaining recognition with his Golden Globe winning role of Captain Amos Burke on the ABC detective show “Burke's Law” (1963-1965), a role he reprised in a revival show of the same name that ran on CBS from 1994 to 1995.

He also starred in the series “The Name of the Game” (NBC, 1968-1971) and “The Adventure” (syndicated, 1972-1973) as well as in many TV films, including “Prescription: Murder” (1958) and “The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw” (1991, recreated his role of Bat Masterson). TV shows he guest starred in included “Alfred Hitchcock Presents,” “The Love Boat,” “The Twilight Zone” and “Murder, She Wrote.” Barry launched his feature film career with Paramount Pictures in the early 1950s and starred in a number of films during the decade, including his Hollywood debut “The Atomic City” (1952) and “The War of the Worlds” (1953), the first on screen adaptation of the H.G. Wells classic novel of the same title.

Four years prior to his death, he made a cameo appearance in Steven Spielberg's 2005 adaptation, “War of the Worlds.” On stage, Barry was nominated for a Tony Award for his starring role in the Broadway premiere of the musical “La Cage Aux Folles” (1981), which was based on the 1973 French play of the same name by Jean Poiret. His previous Broadway credits include “The Merry Widow” (1943), “The Would-Be Gentleman” (1946), “Happy as Larry” (1950) and “The Perfect Setup” (1962). Barry received the Golden Boot Award in 1987. The following year, he was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame thanks to his contribution to live theater. On the personal front, Barry and his wife, Betty Barry (together from 1944 until her death in 2003), had three children (two biological sons and an adopted daughter). He was a passionate political activist and was known for supporting Senator Robert F. Kennedy. He was present at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles when the politician was assassinated.

Eugene Klass Childhood and Family: Eugene Klass, who would late be popular as Gene Barry, was born on June 14, 1919, in New York City, New York, to Eva and Martin Klass. He adopted his professional name in honor of his idol, John Barrymore. As a child, Gene excelled in singing and playing the violin and was given a scholarship to the Chatham Square School of Music for his vocal ability. He stayed in the school for two years. On October 22, 1944, at age 25, Gene married Betty Claire Kalb, who was an actress known by the stage name of Julie Carson. They met during rehearsals of the 1944 Broadway show “Catherine Was Great,” but Betty was fired before opening night because of her blonde hair. Their sons, Michael and Frederick, were born in 1946 and 1953, respectively. In 1967, the couple adopted a daughter named Elizabeth. Gene and his wife would remain together until Betty's death on January 31, 2003, in Los Angeles, CA.

Gene passed away of congestive heart failure at age 90 on December 9, 2009, in Woodland Hills, California. He is survived by his three children, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The War of the Worlds Career: Gene Barry began his career on Broadway at age 23 when he landed the role of Captain Paul Duval in a revival of Sigmund Romberg's “The New Moon” (1942). He then portrayed Falke in the musical “Rosalinda” (1942), Nova Kovich in the revival of “The Merry Widow” (1943, opposite David Wayne), Lieutenant Bunin in “Catherine Was Great” (1944, with Mae West), Dorante and Comte De Chateau-Gaillard in “The Would-Be Gentleman” (1946) and appeared in “Happy as Larry” (1950, with Burgess Meredith). He also portrayed various roles in the musical revue “Bless You All” (1950).

Barry made his television acting debut in 1950 with guest spots in “The Clock” and “Believe It or Not” and the notable role of Orlovsky in the “NBC Television Opera Theatre” episode “Die Fledermaus.” After signed by Paramount in 1952, he starred as Dr. Frank Addison, a nuclear physicist living and working in Los Alamos, New Mexico, in the Jerry Hopper directed drama “Atomic City” (1952), opposite Lydia Clarke. The film was nominated for an Oscar for Best Writing, Story and Screenplay (Sydney Boehm). He went on to work with the studio in such movies as the Technicolor comedy “The Girls of Pleasure Island” (1953, as Captain Beaton), the H. G. Wells science fiction film adaptation “The War of the Worlds” (1953), where he starred as Dr.

Clayton Forrester opposite Ann Robinson as Sylvia van Buren, the drama “Alaska Seas” (1954, starred Robert Ryan and Brian Keith) and George Marshall’s Academy Award nominated musical “Red Garters” (1954, with Rosemary Clooney, Guy Mitchell, and Jack Carson) After parting ways with Paramount, Barry supported Sterling Hayden and Gloria Grahame in the drama “Naked Alibi” (1954), which was directed by Jerry Hopper for Universal International Pictures. He was then cast as Susan Hayward's photojournalist, Louis Hoyt, in the adventure film “Soldier of Fortune” (1955), which was written by Ernest K.

Gann and based on his 1954 novel of the same name, played Captain Charles Laverne in the Tony Curtis adventure vehicle “The Purple Musk” (1955), starred as Frank Duncan in “The Houston Story” (1956, directed by William Castle), worked with Robert Ryan, Anita Ekberg, Rod Steiger, Phyllis Kirk and Keith Andes in the remake “Back from Eternity” (1956, produced and directed by John Farrow) and costarred with Angie Dickinson in Samuel Fuller's war movie “China Gate” (1957). He also played Jonathan Clark in the science fiction film “The 27th Day” (1957), was reunited with director/writer Samuel Fuller for “Forty Guns” (1957, starred Barbara Stanwyck), starred as Secret Agent Casey Reed in the dramatic thriller “Hong Kong Confidential” (1958) and costarred with Robert Mitchum in the cult classic “Thunder Road” (1958, helmed by Arthur Ripley).

Following a string of guest appearances in TV shows like “Alfred Hitchcock Presents,” “The Loretta Young Show” and “The Millionaire,” Barry scored his first regular role on the situation comedy “Our Miss Brooks,” starring Eve Arden. He played physical education teacher Gene Talbot during the show's last season from 1955 to 1956. After the cancellation of the show, he could be seen in episodes of “The Ford Television Theatre,” “Jane Wyman Presents The Fireside Theatre,” “Studio 57,” “The 20th Century-Fox Hour,” “Playhouse 90,” “The Walter Winchell File,” “Target” and “Adventure Showcase” during the mid to the early 1950s, but did not have his next regular stint until he starred in NBC western series “Bat Masterson.” Debuting on October 8, 1958, the show ran for three seasons until June 1, 1961, and was nominated for an Emmy Award in 1959 in the category of Best Editing of a Film for Television.

Barry's television breakthrough arrived when he was cast as Captain Amos Burke on the detective series “Burke's Law,” opposite Gary Conway, Regis Toomey, Eileen O'Neill and Leon Lontoc. The show ran on ABC from September 1963 to May 1965 and Barry picked up a Golden Globe for Best TV Star – Male in 1965. Barry would later reprise his role of Amos Burke in a revival of the show, which ran on CBS from 1994 to 1995. Barry revisited Broadway in a 1962 production of “The Perfect Setup,” with Angie Dickinson and Jan Sterling. The show ran for five performances. Five years later, he starred as Simon Grant in the British film “Maroc 7” (1967). The thriller was directed by Gerry O'Hara and written by David D. Osborn. Costars of the film included Cyd Charisse, Tracy Reed, Elsa Martinelli, Leslie Phillips and Denholm Elliott.

He went on to star with Joan Collins and Richard Todd in the British espionage movie “Subterfuge” (1968), which was directed by Peter Graham Scott. Also in 1958, Barry made his TV movie debut with the TV series “Prescription: Murder,” which starred Peter Falk as Lieutenant Columbo. Later that same year, he starred as Michael London in the NBC adventure movie “Istanbul Express.” He returned to series TV as a regular after the demise of “Burke's Law” as Glenn Howard on the NBC adventure series “The Name of the Game,” opposite Tony Franciosa and Robert Stack. The show ran on NBC from September 20, 1968, to March 19, 1971. After “The Name of the Game” left the airwaves, Barry starred as Gene Bradley in the syndicated spy series “The Adventure” (1972-1973), which was created by Dennis Spooner. The show premiered in the U.K. on ATV on September 29, 1972.

In between “The Name of the Game” and “The Adventure,” he costarred in the TV films “Do You Take This Stranger” (with Lloyd Bridges) and “The Devil and Miss Sarah” (both 1971). In 1974, Barry revisited the big screen when he played Jackson Sinclair in the drama “The Second Coming of Suzanne,” which was directed and written by his son Michael. The senior Barry, who formed his own production company called the Barry Film Company in the early 1970s, also served as an executive producer on the film. After the double duty, he disappeared from the public eye and did not resume his acting career until three years later with performances in the TV miniseries “Aspen” (as Carl Osborne), the TV film “Ransom for Alice” (NBC) and an episode of “Charlie's Angels” called “Angels in the Wings” (as Frank Jason).

He next performed in the stage musical “Spotlight” (1978), played Abraham in two episodes of “Greatest Heroes of the Bible” (1978) and appeared in episodes of “Fantasy Island” and “The Love Boat” (both also 1978) before portraying the important role of Congressman Lee O'Brien in the docudrama “Guyana: Crime of the Century” (1979), for director and writer René Cardona Jr.. Opening the 1980s, Barry supported Susan Blakely in the made for television movie “A Cry for Love” (NBC, 1980), appeared in the show “Aloha Paradise” (1981) and in the TV films “The Girl, the Gold Watch & Dynamite” (1981) and “The Adventures of Nellie Bly” (1981). In 1983, he returned to Broadway with a starring role in the original production of “La Cage Aux Folles,” opposite George Hearn. The role brought him a 1984 Tony nomination for Best Actor in a Musical, but Hearn defeated him and took home the award.

The rest of the 1980s saw Barry in various TV shows, including “Crazy Like a Fox” (1986), “Shell Game” (1987), “The Twilight Zone” (1987), “Hotel” (1987), “My Secret Identity” (1988), “Paradise” (1989) and “Murder, She Wrote” (1989). He also played Glen Robertson in the TV film “Perry Mason: The Case of the Lost Love” (1987) and John Forest in the television thriller “Turn Back the Clock” (1989, starred Connie Sellecca). In 1991, Barry reprised his role of Bat Masterson for the two part NBC western miniseries “The Gambler Returns: The Luck of the Draw.” After appearing in the talk show “Hollywood Beat” in 1993, he recreated his Golden Globe winning role of Amos Burke for the CBS revival series “Burke's Law,” which ran from January 1994 to July 1995.

Commenting on his return to TV as Amos Burke, he said, “I know this will sound immodest, but viewers missed me and have been waiting for me. I haven't been on TV much for the last 20 years, but that was my fault. I just never found parts that I really liked.” Later, in 1999, Barry performed a cabaret act in New York City. Barry made a guest appearance in “Hollywood Off-Ramp” in 2000. He then played Mr. Stern in the ABC TV film “These Old Broads” (2001), which became his final TV production before his death in 2009. In 2005, he, along with Ann Robinson, made a cameo appearance in Steven Spielberg' remake “War of the Worlds,” which starred Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Justin Chatwin and Miranda Otto. The film was a hit with critics and performed well at the box office. Awards: Burke's Law - Show News, Reviews, Recaps and Photos - TV.com EDIT Burke's Law was an Aaron Spelling-produced detective series that starred Gene Barry as Amos Burke, Los Angeles' millionaire chief of detectives.

The jet-setting, swinging Burke was chauffeured to crime scenes in his Rolls-Royce and had a penchant for dropping professorial axioms ("Never ask a question unless you already know the answer. Burke's law!") Gary Conway and Regis Toomey played Burke's supporting detectives, and Leon Lontoc played Henry, Burke's chauffeur. This tongue-in-cheek mystery aired from 1963 to 1965 on ABC. For the 1965-1966 season, the show was retooled as Amos Burke, Secret Agent and changed to a spy show. The new Burke lasted only 17 episodes. In 1994, Barry returned as Burke in a brief revival of the show that aired on CBS along with Diagnosis Murder. The new series kept much of the style of the original (elaborate crimes and big-name guest stars) but lasted only 13 episodes. Burke's Law (TV Series 1963–1966) - IMDb IMDb There was an error trying to load your rating for this title. Some parts of this page won't work property. Please reload or try later. X Beta I'm Watching This!

Keep track of everything you watch; tell your friends. Error Amos Burke was a Los Angeles chief of detectives who was also a millionaire with a chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce, a mansion, and a high-wheeling lifestyle. The hallmarks of this series were ... See full summary » Creator: Murdered Lenore has left a note that she's changing her will with the heir as nephew Jay Boy who is involved with daughter of Jim Clover who needs Lenore's land to complete his development but Jay ... 9.2 Cowboy star Clayton Steele is murdered at the rodeo. The suspects are many but only one had the motive and opportunity. 8.7 Burke has to search for a missing cat before he can find a killer.

8.5 a list of 34 titles created 16 Sep 2011 a list of 25 titles created 28 Jun 2012 a list of 50 titles created 03 Feb 2014 a list of 30 titles created 7 months ago a list of 682 titles created 3 months ago Search for " Burke's Law " on Amazon.com Connect with IMDb Title: Burke's Law (1963–1966) 7.5/10 Want to share IMDb's rating on your own site? Use the HTML below. You must be a registered user to use the IMDb rating plugin. Won 1 Golden Globe. Another 2 nominations. See more awards » Photos The cases of a master criminal defense attorney, handling the most difficult of cases in the aid of the innocent. Stars: Raymond Burr, Barbara Hale, William Hopper The adventures of suave cat burglar Alexander Mundy, who plies his trade for the U.S. Government. Stars: Robert Wagner, Fred Astaire, Malachi Throne Ann Marie is a struggling actress living in New York City.

In between trying to find jobs acting and modeling she has time for her boyfriend, Don Hollinger, and her dad, Lew Marie. Stars: Marlo Thomas, Ted Bessell, Lew Parker This brief revival of the 1960s cop thriller continued the adventures of Amos Burke, a senior Los Angeles police officer and millionaire. By now, Burke was a widower with a son, Peter, who ... See full summary » Stars: Gene Barry, Peter Barton, Dom DeLuise Dressed-up dandy (derby and cane), gambler and lawman roams the West charming women and defending the unjustly accused. His primary weapon was his wit (and cane) rather than his gun. Stars: Gene Barry, Allison Hayes, Allen Jaffe Stu Bailey and Jeff Spencer were the wisecracking, womanizing private detective heroes of this Warner Brothers drama. Stu and Jeff worked out of an office located at 77 Sunset Strip in Los ... See full summary » Stars: Efrem Zimbalist Jr., Edd Byrnes, Roger Smith The missions of agent April Dancer of the United Network Command for Law and Enforcement. Stars: Stefanie Powers, Noel Harrison, Leo G.

Carroll San Francisco Police Commissioner Stewart "Mac" McMillan and his amateur detective wife keep their marriage unpredictable while solving the city's most baffling crimes. Stars: Rock Hudson, John Schuck, Susan Saint James A pair of intelligence agents posing as a tennis pro and his coach go on secret missions around the world. Stars: Robert Culp, Bill Cosby, Kenneth Tobey After the death of her father, sexy Honey West took over his high-tech private detective firm, assisted by rugged Sam Bolt and her pet ocelot Bruce. Stars: Anne Francis, John Ericson, Bruce The two top agents of the United Network Command for Law and Enforcement fight the enemies of peace, particularly the forces of THRUSH. Stars: Robert Vaughn, David McCallum, Leo G. Carroll Gil Favor is trail boss of a continuous cattle drive; he is assisted by Rowdy Yates. The crew runs into characters and adventures along the way. Stars: Clint Eastwood, Paul Brinegar, Steve Raines Edit Storyline Amos Burke was a Los Angeles chief of detectives who was also a millionaire with a chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce, a mansion, and a high-wheeling lifestyle.

The hallmarks of this series were glamorous, sophisticated settings, unusual twists on formula homicide plotlines, and big-name guest stars. After a couple of seasons, its format was radically revamped. Burke left the police force and became an agent for US Intelligence. At that point, the show's name changed to "Amos Burke--Secret Agent". Burke's adventures were briefly revived in 1994, under the original title. Written by Marg Baskin <marg@asd.raytheon.ca> 20 September 1963 (USA) See more » Also Known As: Amos Burke, Secret Agent See more » Filming Locations: Did You Know? Trivia This originated as the first installment of an anthology series, The Dick Powell Theatre: Who Killed Julie Greer? (1961). Dick Powell had played Inspector Burke on that show. See more » Crazy Credits In the opening credits, the title of the show was always announced by the voice of a woman saying, VERY seductively, "Burke's Law". See more » Connections (United Kingdom) – See all my reviews I have just purchased the complete first season DVD of "Burke's Law".

It was so good that I immediately wanted to get the second season only to find it is not yet available. Produced in 1963/4 by the highly creative Aaron Spelling, So far as memory serves me it has never aired in the UK & certainly not since colour TV was developed in the late 1960's. An old-fashioned murder mystery series of the "whodunit" variety, it boasts a tremendous cast list & is exceptionally entertaining. Suave & debonair, cool-as-a-cucumber Gene Barry is great in the title role. Having now sat through and watched every season 1 episode it seems that Mr. Spelling believed in making a show as glamorous as possible in both locations & women. When off duty, usually at the start or finish of an episode, Amos Burke (Mr. Barry) gets to kiss some of the most gorgeous ladies in Hollywood at that time. Young starlet Mary Ann Mobley (who had one of the loveliest faces I ever saw in my life), Elizabeth Macrae, Debra Paget, Janice Rule, Francine York, Charlene Holt, Elizabeth Allen & Elaine Stewart.

He never got to kiss Tina Louise (aw shucks, ain't life a bitch?.) Anyway, nice work if you can get it. To whom it may concern, PLEASE make seasons 2 & 3 available!. 1 of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes Gene Barry - IMDb IMDb Actor | Producer | Soundtrack With effortless class and elegant charm, Gene Barry took 50s and 60s TV by storm after a rather lackluster start on the musical stage and in films. Born Eugene Klass in New York City on June 14, 1919, the son of Martin, an amateur violinist, and Eva Klass, an amateur singer, he showed a gift at an early age as a violin virtuoso during adolescence ... See full bio » Born: Famous Directors: From Sundance to Prominence From Christopher Nolan to Quentin Tarantino and every Coen brother in between, many of today's most popular directors got their start at the Sundance Film Festival . Here's a list of some of the biggest names to go from Sundance to Hollywood prominence.

a list of 70 people created 28 May 2011 a list of 1126 people created 12 Jul 2014 a list of 46 people created 14 Jun 2015 a list of 1683 people created 5 months ago a list of 94 people created 1 month ago Do you have a demo reel? Add it to your IMDbPage How much of Gene Barry's work have you seen? User Polls Won 1 Golden Globe. Another 2 wins. See more awards » Known For Burke's Law Capt. Amos Burke / Amos Burke, Secret Agent / Snooky Martinelli (1963-1966) 2001 These Old Broads (TV Movie) Mr. Stern 1989 Murder, She Wrote (TV Series) Henry Reynard 1988 My Secret Identity (TV Series) Fred Cooper / Captain Noble - You've Got a Friend (1988) ...

Fred Cooper / Captain Noble 1987 Hotel (TV Series) 1987 Shell Game (TV Series) Jason Starr 1978-1982 The Love Boat (TV Series) Ted Anderson / Wade Hubbard / Alfred Newberry 1978-1981 Fantasy Island (TV Series) Jim Brady / 'Dex' Dexter / Neville Quinn 1977-1981 Charlie's Angels (TV Series) Steve Moss / Frank Jason 1977 Ransom for Alice! (TV Movie) Harry Darew 1968 Istanbul Express (TV Movie) Michael London 1962 General Electric Theater (TV Series) Mike Thompson 1959 Adventure Showcase (TV Series) Sergeant Andy Pike - The Witness (1957) ... Larry Peterson 1958 Target (TV Series) 1957 Playhouse 90 (TV Series) Lt.

Roy Koalton 1956 Damon Runyon Theater (TV Series) 'Denver' Dan Taggert 1955 The Millionaire (TV Series) Steve Carey 1955 Alfred Hitchcock Presents (TV Series) Dan Varrel / Dell Delaney 1955 Studio 57 (TV Series) Lukas 1955 Science Fiction Theatre (TV Series) Capt. John Forester / Joe Ferguson 1955 TV Reader's Digest (TV Series) Victor Martin 1954 Lux Video Theatre (TV Series) Cosgrove / Griggsy 1953 The Lonely Path (TV Movie) John Fremont 1950 Cavalcade of Stars (TV Series) J. J. Fletcher / Product Testing Sketch - Episode #2.3 (1950) ... J. J.

Fletcher / Product Testing Sketch 1954 Red Garters (performer: "Lady Killer", "Vaquero!") Hide 1987 Happy 100th Birthday, Hollywood (TV Special documentary) Himself 1986 NBC 60th Anniversary Celebration (TV Special documentary) Himself 1983 Working in the Theatre (TV Series documentary) Himself 1983 American Playhouse (TV Series) Himself - Episode #2.5 (1974) ... Himself (as Gene & Betty) - Episode #2.4 (1974) ... Himself (as Gene & Betty) - Episode #2.3 (1974) ... Himself (as Gene & Betty) - Episode #2.2 (1974) ... Himself (as Gene & Betty) - Episode #2.1 (1974) ...

Himself (as Gene & Betty) 1967-1974 The Hollywood Squares (TV Series) Himself 1972 Jerry Visits (TV Series) Himself 1971 The Movie Game (TV Series) Himself 1964-1967 The Hollywood Palace (TV Series) Himself - Host / Himself 1963 Stump the Stars (TV Series) Himself - Guest Panelist 1961 Pete and Gladys (TV Series) Himself 1961 Here's Hollywood (TV Series) Himself 1960 About Faces (TV Series) Himself - NBC Fall Preview (1958) ... Himself - Bat Masterson Hide 2004 Broadway: The American Musical (TV Mini-Series documentary) Georges (in 'La Cage aux folles') Stage: Appeared in "On a Clear Day You Can See Forever" on Broadway. See more » Publicity Listings: 1 Interview | 7 Articles | 2 Magazine Cover Photos | See more » Alternate Names: My earliest dreams were of acting, and I have never considered anything else.

Trivia: Met his wife, Betty Barry (her stage name was Julie Carson) during rehearsals of the 1944 Broadway show "Catherine Was Great". Betty was fired before opening night because she was a blonde and Mae West , the star, would not have competing blondes in her show. Betty had disguised her hair color with a dark black wig. Gene and Betty married later that year and lived a long happy life together until ... See more » Trademark: MURDER IN BLACK & WHITE - Page 1 - MurderMysteries.com Share Boston Blackie Boston Blackie knows both sides of the law. A reformed thief with a rag-tag group of friends, Blackie couldn't help but get involved in cases big and small. He was known as �an enemy of those who make him an enemy, the friend of those who have no friend.' The series ran from 1951-1953 and starred Kent Taylor. Bourbon Street Beat The least successful of the Warner Bros. slick detective series from the late 1950's, Bourbon Street Beat had an exotic atmosphere going for it, if not much else.

Andrew Duggan, Richard Long and handsome hunk, Van Williams, starred as a trio of detectives who prowled the historic French Quarter in New Orleans. Burke's Law Money isn't everything, is it? Amos Burke, played by a slick Gene Barry, was a millionaire who could have lived the life of luxury. However, in Burke's Law, this Mr. Moneybags was also the Chief of Detectives in Los Angeles. He may have been a cop, but Burke rode to work in a Rolls Royce. Dragnet Dragnet made history as the first popular cop drama on television. Produced, written and starring the solemn actor Jack Webb as Sgt. Joe Friday, this b&w classic made the LAPD famous before they became notorious. Webb's deadpan acting was the perfect foil to an ever changing roll call of Dragnet guest stars who were as entertainingly quirky as Sgt. Friday was dedicated and dull. Hawaiian Eye This Warner Bros. series about murder in Paradise starred handsome boy toys Robert Conrad, Anthony Eisley and Grant Williams. This unlikely gang of P.I.'s teamed up with pretty and perky Connie Stevens to solve murder and mysteries in Honolulu.

Poncie Ponce was thrown in to add a bit of island-style humor to the mix. Honey West Considered to be the first full-fledged female detective on television, the beautiful and blonde Anne Francis starred as Honey West. Originally a spin-off from an episode of Burke's Law, the show only lasted one season in 1965. The series was original in that the heroine was a martial arts expert and, like James Bond, used electronic gadgetry including faux olive-shaped transmitters in her martinis to catch crooks. Mike Hammer Long before he played the irascible father in the film, A Christmas Story, character actor Darren McGavin starred from 1958-1960 as hard-boiled detective, Mike Hammer. While the action was fast and furious, McGavin played the tough gumshoe with a wry sense of humor that author Mickey Spillane never fully appreciated. Mr. and Mrs. North This sophisticated murder mystery series began as a book, then a Broadway play, a movie (starring Gracie Allen) and a long-running radio show before making it to television in 1953.

A fun-loving couple, Jerry and Pamela North (Richard Demming and Barbara Britton), just can't help but become involved in crimes in New York City. M Squad Running from 1957 to 1960 on NBC, M Squad starred the talented Lee Marvin. In over 100 episodes, Marvin played Lt. Frank Ballinger as a tough-as-they-come cop in a show that's been described as �Dragnet on steroids'. This show still holds up well today thanks to Marvin's performances, despite being parodied in recent years. Naked City A groundbreaking crime series from the late �50's, Naked City was an anthology shot on location in New York City, making it a forerunner of Law & Order. Taut acting by then-young New York actors including Robert Duval, Dustin Hoffman, Robert Redford, Burgess Meredith, and George C. Scott added to the talents of the lead actors, Paul Burke and Horace McMahon. Perry Mason photo gallery... Inspired by the pulp novels of Erle Stanley Gardner, Perry Mason, starring Raymond Burr, was one of the most popular crime shows in TV history.

No matter how difficult the case, legal eagle Mason always solved the crime and was rewarded with a dramatic courtroom confession. More... Peter Gunn Craig Stevens, as P.I. Peter Gunn, was so hip that when he wasn't solving murders he hung out at �Mother's', a beatnik coffee house where his girlfriend, Edie Hart, sang hot jazz composed by Henry Mancini. Created by Blake Edwards, the show set the style for sophisticated TV sleuths. More... Richard Diamond, Private Detective Richard Diamond had been a wildly popular radio show before it hit TV screens in 1957. While the radio dramas had starred an urbane Dick Powell, the TV series was headlined by a relative newcomer, David Janssen. Trivia buffs know that Diamond's secretary, �Sam', was played by another newcomer, Mary Tyler Moore, who quit the show after one season as only her voice and long legs were used on camera. The Saint Leslie Charteris' sleuth, Simon Templar a.k.a. The Saint, was unique in that the show was one of the first British television shows to appear in America.

The Saint had been popular in books since the �20's but the show debuted on the small screen in 1962 starring the debonair Roger Moore in the role of an amateur sleuth and crime-stopper. 77 Sunset Strip Breaking ground as the first hour-length P.I. show on television, 77 Sunset Strip's detectives were as popular with teens as they were with all ages of TV viewers. Suave Stu Bailey and his young partner, Jeff Spencer, solved Hollywood crimes, often assisted by �Kookie', a hipster wannabe P.I., and �Roscoe' the neighborhood bookie. Surfside 6 Another in the stable of detective shows from Warner Bros. in the early �60's, Surfside 6 starred Van Williams, Lee Patterson, Troy Donahue, Diane McBain and spicy Latina actress Margarita Sierra. Scripted to attract a young audience, the three detectives shared digs and worked cases out of a houseboat in Miami. Their neighbor at the marina was an heiress and the sleuths were often helped out by �Cha Cha', a lounge singer at the Fontainebleu Hotel.

The Thin Man Gamin-faced actress Phyllis Kirk took on the role of sophisticated and sassy Nora Charles (the role Myrna Loy made famous on the silver screen) in the 1950's TV series, The Thin Man. Starring opposite Kirk was a young and handsome Peter Lawford as Nick Charles. Along with the help of their faithful terrier, Asta, the retired detective and his pretty wife solve crimes in the Big Apple. Tightrope Armenian-American actor Michael Connors starred in 1959 in Tightrope. Connors played a tough undercover agent who often had as much trouble with mafia kingpins as he did with cops who didn't know he was working undercover. While the show was cancelled after one season, it is remarkable for it's noirish look and gritty realism. Mike Connors would later find fame and fortune as television's Mannix. Gene Barry - It's Burke's Law!

Tim: �We took prints and they�re on their way to Washington.� Burke: �Were there any...?� Tim: �No trespassers in the vicinity, just a man walking his dog and we�ve taken his name.� Burke: �I suppose you got the dog�s name too.� Tim: �Yes sir, Prince!� Captain Burke still had the last word- Les: �They don�t leave clues like they used to!� Burke: �What did you do for bloodstains?� Tim: �Bloodstains?� Burke: �Yeah, bloodstains. When a man�s shot in the back he usually bleeds. There are no bloodstains around the body. Could be he was shot elsewhere and brought here.� Les: � Something tells me we should have noticed that!� Burke: �That�s alright, Les, only Captains are perfect! I�ll see you back at the office.� Incredulous dialogue, but never let the practicality of real life interfere with a willing suspension of disbelief - Burke�s Law! The show featured �Burke�s Lawisms�, one-line witticisms called a Burke�s Law.

Most paraphrased existing proverbs - �Too many crooks spoil the stew!� or � �Where there�s a will, there�s a relative!�- Some sounded like they came out of a fortune cookie or a Christmas cracker - �Money can�t buy love, but it can put you in a good bargaining position!� or � �When you hit a brick wall, sleep on it!�. Others just didn�t make any sense at all -�if you don�t find what you�re looking for in deep water, look in the flower garden!� or � When it comes to murder, the only sure thing is that there are no sure things!� High profile Hollywood guest stars were also a signature of the show - several appearing in cameo. In �Who Killed Alex Debbs?�, Sammy Davis, Jr. appeared as Cordwainer Bird, (a pseudonym of Harlan Ellison who wrote the script) a character wanted for questioning. Sammy arrived at the police station, and proceeded to dance all over Burke�s desk, only to be taken away and never seen again. Another example was David Niven who appeared for only a moment in �Who Killed Billy Jo?� as The World�s Greatest Juggler!

(Other notable guest stars included Gene Barry�s wife, Betty, to whom he is still very happily married. She appeared in �Who Killed The Eleventh Best Dressed Woman In The World?�, and Gene�s son, Fred, who appeared in �Who Killed Mr. X?� & �Who Killed Eleanora Davis?�) Apart from Gene Barry, the other regulars all helped to keep Burke�s Law: Gary Conway was a very popular actor, especially amongst the female fans. He was a relative newcomer to Hollywood when he got the part of Tim Tilson. He had appeared in such films as �I Was A Teenage Frankenstein� (1957) and �How To Make A Monster� (1958). In 1962, he played a character called Tyler Duane in �Young Guns of Texas�, and Burke�s Law soon followed. Conway went on to star as Steve Burton in Irwin Allens� Land of the Giants. Since then, Conway has become a successful writer, producer and director, and amongst his latest projects is a proposed Land of the Giants TV reunion. Leon Lontoc played Henry, Amos Burke�s oriental chauffeur and valet.

Looking after the Police Captain�s luxurious mansion was second nature to Henry, unlike his sense of style. In one episode, he�s seen wearing a garish bathrobe. Employer and style guru, Burke could take no more; �Take it back and kill the guy who sold it to you - don�t worry, I�ll get you off!� Burke remarked before embarking on another case. Sadly Mr. Lontoc died in 1974. Regis Toomey played Sergeant Lester Hart. He was the seasoned cop, looking forward to retirement. He always seemed to have an avuncular attitude towards Burke, and occasionally betrayed a distinct admiration for the Captain. The impression I got was that he and Amos went back a long way. Regis Toomey died in 1991. Eileen O�Neil played Sergeant Ames, a fairly underused character in my opinion. She seemed to be just around to look attractive and take notes. Eileen O�Neil, the actress seemed to work quite regularly on America TV during the sixties. Apart from Burke�s Law, she appeared in episodes of The Beverly Hillbillies, Batman, Get Smart, The Munsters, I Dream of Jeannie and Bewitched.

She also appeared in several films; �A Man Called Dagger� (1967) & �Cindy� (1970). Burke�s Law did last for two full seasons in its original format. It even spawned a totally separate spin off series. (As featured in Burke�s Law - �Who Killed the Jackpot?� - this episode introduced Anne Francis and John Ericson in their Honey West roles. The episode also featured Steve Forrest, who was to become ATV�s The Baron) In 1964, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association honored Gene Barry with a Golden Globe Award for best male television star, and Burke's Law for best television show. In 1965 after Burke�s Law had notched up a respectable 64 episodes, the producers decided on a change in the format. James Bond was a big success, and TV spies were the new craze. Amos Burke was about to enter the world of espionage . Leaving behind the Los Angeles police department, Burke became an international agent for the American government. His contact was the Man! (played by Carl Benton Reid). The first episode �Balance of Terror� had Burke foiling a plot to smuggle Red Chinese gold into Latin America.

Amos Burke: Secret Agent was to have all the fancy gadgets and gimmicks that 007 and the men from U.N.C.L.E had found so useful. The title sequence endorsed this, as it showed Burke stepping from the shadows into a bright spotlight. He lights a cigarette and he then shoots some off-screen victim with a bullet from the cigarette case! Amos Burke: Secret Agent was by all accounts as suave and sophisticated as it�s predecessor, but like Burke�s Law, it was filmed in glorious black & white! In America it aired against new spy show �I-Spy� which was filmed in glorious color. Amos Burke: Secret Agent lasted just 17 episodes before poor ratings led to its cancellation. Gene Barry continued in television, starring as magazine publisher, Glenn Howard in The Name of the Game (1968 -71), and then as Gene Bradley, a film star moonlighting as a spy in The Adventurer (1972 -73). Various guest appearances followed in The Love Boat, Charlie�s Angels and Fantasy Island.

In 1982, during a lull in his television career, Gene returned to the stage, appearing with his wife, Betty in �Watergate: A Musical�. In 1983, Gene played the homosexual lover of a drag queen in the hit Broadway musical, �La Cage aux folles�, a role, which was a far cry from the likes of Amos Burke or Gene Bradley. Very much a family man, Gene was at first a little hesitant at playing a part so diverse from his other roles. His wife, Betty urged him to go for it, as did his sons and daughter. (Contrary to Hollywood standards, the Barry family is one of the precious few that have escaped even a fragment of gossip, and the marriage of over 50 years has been a testament to what a family is all about.) Then in 1994, 28 years after the original, Gene Barry starred in a new series of Burke�s Law. The show had a new theme, but retained that breathy female voice announcing the title. The Rolls Royce Silver Cloud II returned also, this time in a classy gold and black as opposed to silver.

Henry was still the chauffeur (this time played by the late Danny Kamekona), and still laying down the law was a more mature Amos Burke. Between the intervening years, Burke had obviously ceased to be a secret agent and had returned to the LAPD. No longer a Captain, he was now referred to as Chief Burke. He has been married to Sarah, had a son and been widowed for the passed 11 years. His son, Peter (played by Peter Barton) had followed in dad�s footsteps and become a detective in Homicide. The new Burke�s Law also had a resident forensic expert, Lily Morgan (played by Bever-Leigh Banfield). The new team was complete apart from one exception - Dom DeLuise played Vinnie Piatte, an Italian-American caterer, who found himself involved in most of the �gigillionaire� detective�s cases! The whole show came across as a well-crafted package, if a little lightweight. The original producer, Aaron Spelling, famous for his glossy soaps, looked to recreate the new series using all the old ingredients.

(As a point of interest, Gene Barry had turned down the role of Blake Carrington, in Spelling�s Dynasty) Gene Barry, at the age of 75, was still as smooth as silk, but could never resist playing for laughs and sending himself up. One scene in the first episode - �Who Killed The Starlet?� - had Chief Burke dancing in a rock video! The daft dialogue was still there too. Taken from � Who Killed Romeo?� A note is found in the victim�s apartment: Murder note: �I�ve decided the only way to kill you is to put your head a vice, shave your mangy mane and drill tiny holes through your skull!� Chief Burke: �Peter, we are looking for someone with a lot of unresolved anger - and access to power tools!� It still boasted the high profile guest stars, being called the �Love Boat� of the nineties. Jennifer Anniston, Morgan Fairchild, James Brolin all appeared.

Eva Gabor, who had been seen in the original series, turned up in �Who Killed Romeo?�, and Anne Francis, who played Honey West in the spin off series turned up at a private eyes� convention, in �Who Killed Nick Hazard�, as Honey Best! Some episodes were penned by writers from the original series - �Who Killed Alexander the Great� was co-written by Richard Levinson and William Link (original series writers of� �Who Killed Mother Goose?�). This tale had all the twists and turns of the original stories. This story ended with a moving scene showing Amos and son, Peter, visiting Sarah Burke�s grave. One episode, �Who Killed The Host At The Roast?� was even written by Gene Barry and real son, Michael. As with any remake, new characters were introduced to play alongside the old favorites. Henry, the chauffeur, had pretty much become one of the Burke family, fussing over Peter like a mother hen. The character was also less obsequious, and wickedly relished in the perks of the job.

In one episode he appeared in a daytime soap (�Who Killed The Soap Star?�- �Hey everybody, come and watch me on TV!�), and in another, he enjoyed all the benefits of a luxury hotel (�Who Killed Good Time Charlie?� - �Am I paying you today, Henry, or is this your day off?�). Peter Burke just seemed to live life to the full. When he wasn�t apprehending murderers, he was driving round in his �funky� black jeep playing loud rock music, or reminiscing about past lovers. He lived rent free in a spacious outbuilding by the side of dotting dad�s spacious mansion. A surfboard was always propped up in the corner, reminding viewers of his many days spent on the beach. While interviewing witnesses, he would routinely bungee jump from a bridge, or when chasing a suspect, thinks nothing of diving into a hotel pool from several stories up. The big problem was this character was too perfect and lacked any balancing attributes. He might have had more appeal if he failed once in a while - but he never did.

Comparing Peter to Tim Tilson, you soon realize that young Tim, although keen and impulsive, did make mistakes and would probably have learned from them. In Peter�s case, he was so sure of himself that he didn�t even have a chip on his shoulder about walking in dad�s shadow - which is a pity. That might have given some depth to the character, along with some badly needed appeal. Lily Morgan, the forensic expert, often betrayed the odd flutter with her eyelashes when talking to perfect Pete, but I could never see upwardly mobile number one son falling for a girl with brains. And Lily certainly had plenty of gray matter. While Chief Burke tried to solve the case by interviewing all the suspects over 60, and Peter concentrated on the �bimbo�s�, Lily would have the murderer banged to rights with a bit of fluff, or soil from the rose garden. Finally we come to Vinnie Piatte. Why does a who-dun-it? show need the regular presence of an over the top Italian-American caterer? Apart from superfluous comic relief, I�ve really no idea! Vinnie was like that maiden aunt who always called at inconvenient times and insisted on staying for week.

When he wasn�t serving the main course at the scene of the crime, or providing candid gossip on some poor innocent suspect, he was trying to include Burke in some business deal involving seafood or pasta! Sadly, the show just didn�t catch on, even with the dubious presence of Vinnie. As with a lot of series, haphazard television scheduling had a lot to do with its premature demise, but ultimately a lot of its success was riding on soap star, Peter Barton, who apart from good looks, didn�t really have much more to offer. Female fans of his previous series The Young and the Restless might have found him appealing, but fans of the original Burke�s Law would have just seen him as a �Ken� doll. The new Burke�s Law might not have had the same success as the original, but it was a good try. Twenty-seven episodes covering two seasons is better that some series. But sometimes it takes more than the right script, the right characters or even the right schedule - sometimes it takes the right moment, and it may just be that like so many revisited series, for Burke�s Law at least, that moment has passed. Or has it?

Where was it I read that someone�s thinking of doing a Burke�s Law TV Movie? �When it comes to TV, the only sure thing is that there are no sure things� Burke�s Law Reprint permission granted by Mike Burrows with thanks to the Gene Barry Fan Page Retro : The Law and Barry : AMOS BURKE IS BACK--THIS TIME ON CBS - latimes YOU ARE HERE: LAT Home → Collections Retro : The Law and Barry : AMOS BURKE IS BACK--THIS TIME ON CBS January 02, 1994 |SUSAN KING | TIMES STAFF WRITER "You know something?," Gene Barry says. "It's just like riding a bike." From 1963 to 1965, Barry starred in the popular ABC detective series "Burke's Law" as Amos Burke, the Los Angeles chief of detectives who just happened to be a millionaire. Suave, intelligent and handsome, Burke would report to the scene of the crime in a chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce. Nearly three decades after "Burke's Law" went to syndication heaven, it's back as a new limited CBS series.

"Now I'm the chief of homicide," says Barry, relaxing this sunny afternoon in the family room of his friendly Beverly Hills home. "I still have the old car--we found one the same year (1963) and it looks great--and a better house." Burke also has a detective son, played by Peter Barton of "The Young and the Restless" fame. "Instead of having a sidekick or a young detective with me all the time, I have a son," Barry says. "Thirty years ago, Burke wasn't married, but he got married and lost his wife." The Burke fils lives in a garage apartment at his father's mansion. "He's totally opposite," Barry says. "Where I dress in nice suits, he'll dress like from the Gap or something. I drive around in the Rolls Royce and he drives a Jeep." Barry had been looking to revive "Burke's Law" for a number of years, but all the deals fell apart. "CBS was always interested," he says. It was producer Aaron Spelling, who was a producer on the original series, who finally made the new series a reality. "He always loved the show," Barry says.

Ironically, Barry had no interest in doing a TV series 30 years ago. From 1958 to 1961, he starred in the NBC Western "Bat Masterson" as the dandy lawman. After it was canceled, Barry was eager to do features. He had come out from the New York stage in the early '50s and appeared in such films as "War of the Worlds," "China Gate" and "Soldier of Fortune" before doing TV. Still, his agent asked him to read the "Burke's Law" pilot script. But Barry didn't want to be tempted. "I said: 'No. I don't want to play television. I want to go forward.' " In fact, Barry had earlier turned down the role of Dr. Richard Kimble in "The Fugitive." "I said to (creator) Roy Huggins, 'If you want to do a one-shot, I would be happy to do it,' " Barry recalls. "But to play this character every I week, I would be afraid of that character, that it would stamp me in the wrong kind of way." Eventually, he read the "Burke's Law" pilot and loved it.

"That's how I got involved," Barry says. Over the years, Spelling has called Barry to do weekly series, including "Dynasty." But Barry turned down the long-running prime-time soap to star on Broadway in the Tony Award-winning musical "La Cage Aux Folles." "I may not have gotten rich," Barry says, "but it was a wonderful experience." Barry's discovered it's been easy to get back into Amos Burke's shoes. "The character stays with you," he says. "You find that as you get older, you add new elements, richer elements. When I look back at some of the things I did, I didn't like them. I did comedy and maybe I reached too far. I know what's more tasteful, and bringing the son into it makes it much richer." It so happens that Barry's eldest son, Michael, is involved in the new series. The two wrote a script about a murder which takes place at a Hollywood roast. "This is one of the five we are shooting," Barry says proudly. "We were flattered that they loved our idea. It's one heck of a script." "Burke's Law" airs Fridays at 9 p.m. on CBS. MORE:

Question: In what detective programme did Gene Barry play a millionaire detective
Answer: Burke's Law