Jack Somack was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Portnoy’s Complaint,” “The Frisco Kid,” and “Sanford and Son.” He was born on September 14, 1918, in Chicago, Illinois and passed away on August 24, 1983, in Los Angeles, California.
Personal and Family Life
Jack Somack was married to Florence Sachs from July 1941 until his death in 1983. The couple had two children together. Before pursuing acting, he worked as a chemical engineer but only began his acting career in his fifties after his children had finished their education.
Career
Somack started his acting career relatively late, performing in amateur productions prior to becoming a professional actor. He became well-known for a memorable Alka-Seltzer commercial in 1969, which unfortunately faced backlash for its portrayal of Italian-Americans. He also gained fame for his role as the father of Richard Benjamin’s character in “Portnoy’s Complaint,” which contributed to his recognition in the film industry.
Death and Legacy
Jack Somack died of a heart attack on August 24, 1983, in Los Angeles, California. His contributions to television and film have left a lasting impression, especially his performances in various popular sitcoms and commercials. Somack is remembered as a versatile actor who broke into the industry later in life, inspiring many to follow their dreams, regardless of age.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Carlton Your Doorman | 1980-05-21 | Charles Shaftman (voice) |
| Generation | 1969-12-15 | Airline Policeman |
| Blood Bath | 1975-10-17 | Ralph Lambert |
| Portnoy’s Complaint | 1972-06-19 | Jack Portnoy |
| The Frisco Kid | 1979-07-06 | Samuel Bender |
| Shut Up… I’m Crying | 1970-01-01 | |
| Desperate Characters | 1971-09-22 | Leon |
| Heat of Anger | 1972-03-03 | Mr. Stoller |
| The Main Event | 1979-06-22 | Murry |
| Hero at Large | 1980-02-08 | Waiter |
| The Little Rascals’ Christmas Special | 1979-12-03 | Santa (voice) |
| All in the Family | 1971-01-12 | Tony Vicino |
| The Jeffersons | 1975-01-18 | |
| Barney Miller | 1975-01-23 | Mr. Cotterman |
| Kojak | 1973-10-24 | Muttel |
| Hallmark Hall of Fame | 1951-12-24 | Trainer |
| Gloria | 1982-09-26 | |
| Stockard Channing: In Just Friends | 1979-03-04 | |
| The Stockard Channing Show | 1980-03-24 | Mr. Kramer |
| Family Ties | 1982-09-22 | Mr. Adler |
| Starsky & Hutch | 1975-09-10 | |
| Sanford and Son | 1972-01-14 | |
| Laverne & Shirley | 1976-01-27 | |
| The Partners | 1971-09-18 | |
| Getting Together | 1971-09-18 | |
| Popi | 1976-01-20 | Mr. Goldman |
| Ball Four | 1976-09-22 | |
| The Rockford Files | 1974-09-13 | Oliver Prey |
| The Love Boat | 1977-09-24 | Buzz Plesser |
| Kojak | 1973-10-24 | Charlie Gerson |