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Jerry Orbach

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Jerry Orbach Fast Facts:

Made New York stage debut in 1955, joining the Off-Broadway production of The Threepenny Opera.
In 1960, he orginated the role of El Gallo and introduced the classic "Try to Remember" in the Off-Broadway show The Fantasticks, which became the world's longest-running musical.
His recurring character on Angela Lansbury's Murder, She Wrote led to his title role in the short-lived spin-off The Law and Harry McGraw (1987-88).
Auditioned twice to be a series regular on Law & Order and was passed over both times, first for George Dzundza, then for Paul Sorvino. Orbach went on to make a guest appearance as a defense attorney in 1991 and finally signed on as Det. Lennie Briscoe in 1992. Dick Wolf told him to pattern Briscoe after his detective role in the 1981 movie Prince of the City.
Last Broadway musical appearance was as Julian Marsh in 1981's 42nd Street.
Inducted into the Theatre Hall of Fame in 1999.
Recorded a solo album, "Jerry Orbach — Off-Broadway" in 1961; reissued on CD in 2000.
In 2003, he was honored by the Drama League for having "appeared in more performances of American musicals than any other living actor."

Jerry Orbach Relationships:
Anthony Nicholas Orbach - Son
Chris Orbach - Son
Elaine Cancilla - Wife
Emily Orbach - Mother
Leon Orbach - Father
Marta Curro - Ex-wife
Jerry Orbach Awards:
1965 Tony: Actor, Supporting or Featured (Musical) - Nominee
1969 Tony: Actor (Musical) - Winner
1976 Tony: Actor (Musical) - Nominee
1990 Emmy: Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series - Nominee
2000 Emmy: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series - Nominee
1992 Emmy: Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or Special - Nominee
College:
Attended University of Illinois, Urbana, IL; attended Northwestern University, Evanston, IL