Louis Zorich (born February 12, 1924 in Chicago, Illinois) is an American actor. He is well-known for his portrayal of Paul Reiser's father "Burt Buchman" in the NBC series Mad About You. He played the role from 1993 to 1999.
One of Zorich's first major film roles was the Russian Constable in the 1971 film Fiddler on the Roof, starring Israeli actor Chaim Topol and directed by Norman Jewison.
He also played the role of Pete in the 1984 film The Muppets Take Manhattan.
Daughter, Christina
Was nominated for Broadway's 1969 Tony Award as Best Supporting or Featured Actor (Dramatic) for "Hadrian VII."
Gray-haired character actor of Yugoslav descent primarily of the stage who appeared in flavorful ethnic film roles later in life; best known on TV as Paul Reiser's father in the comedy series "Mad About You" (1992), Marion Ross's husband in "Brooklyn Bridge" (1991) and for his voiceover work in numerous commercials.
He and wife Olympia Dukakis co-founded the Whole Theatre Company in Montclair, New Jersey, which ran for 15 years (1973-1988). The couple have three children: one daughter, actress Christina Zorich, and two sons, Peter and Stefan.
Served in the U.S. Army during WWII.
Born in Chicago, he studied music at Roosevelt University, and received his dramatic training at the Goodman Theater before beginning his stage career in Canada. He landed his first TV job in a Canadian production of "Les Miserables".
Made his Broadway debut in Jean Anouilh's "Becket" (1960), starring Laurence Olivier and Anthony Quinn (I).
Uncle of former Chicago Bears lineman Chris Zorich.
