Michael Conrad

Biography

Michael Conrad (October 16, 1925 – November 22, 1983) was an American actor known for his extensive work in television throughout the 1950s to the 1980s. One of his notable performances came in 1963 when he portrayed Felton Grimes, the central character and murder victim in the Perry Mason episode titled "The Case of the Bigamous Spouse." He also appeared as Uncle Casimir, the far-left uncle of Michael Stivic, on the groundbreaking series All in the Family, where he often clashed ideologically with the bigoted Archie Bunker.

Conrad made a significant impression on film audiences in the 1974 classic The Longest Yard, playing Nate Scarboro, a former NFL tight end for the New York Giants who becomes the head coach of the Mean Machine, a group of inmates assembled by Burt Reynolds' character, Paul Crewe, to compete against the prison guards. Interestingly, Reynolds later took on the role of Scarboro in the 2005 remake featuring Adam Sandler.

During the 1976-1977 television season, he was a regular cast member in Delvecchio, portraying the character Lt. Macavan. However, Conrad is perhaps most recognized for his role as Sgt. Phil Esterhaus on the acclaimed series Hill Street Blues. He became famous for his signature sign-off during the weekly roll call, urging viewers with, "Let's be careful out there." His outstanding performances earned him two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for Hill Street Blues in 1981 and 1982.