John Colicos

Biography

John Colicos (December 10, 1928 – March 6, 2000) was a distinguished Canadian actor renowned for his versatile performances across stage and screen in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom. His acting journey began in Canadian theater, where he made history as the youngest performer to take on the role of King Lear at the prestigious Old Vic in London. With a commanding presence, Colicos became a sought-after actor for iconic villainous roles in both science fiction and dramatic narratives.

One of his most notable performances was as Commander Kor, the first Klingon character introduced in the original Star Trek series episode "Errand of Mercy" (1967), a role he reprised in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, earning a lasting legacy among fans. Additionally, he portrayed Count Baltar in the original Battlestar Galactica series and lent his voice to the notorious villain Apocalypse in the acclaimed 1990s X-Men animated series. His impressive filmography also includes significant appearances in works such as The Changeling, Anne of the Thousand Days, and the daytime drama General Hospital.

Colicos's contributions to the performing arts were marked by his powerful voice and dramatic flair, solidifying his place in popular culture. He was married to Mona McHenry and was the proud father of two sons. Colicos passed away in Toronto in 2000, leaving behind an enduring legacy in the entertainment industry at the age of 71.