Robert Hegyes was an American actor who is best known for his role as Juan Epstein in the TV series Welcome Back, Kotter, as well as appearances in Cagney & Lacey and The Drew Carey Show.
Personal and Family Life
Born on May 7, 1951, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, Robert had an Hungarian-American father, Stephen, and an Italian-American mother, Marie Dominica. He was the oldest of four siblings. Robert studied acting at Metuchen High School and later earned a degree in Theater and Secondary Education from Rowan University.
Career
Hegyes began his acting career in New York City, performing with various theater groups. He gained prominence starring in the acclaimed series Welcome Back, Kotter and continued to work in television and film, including roles in Diagnosis: Murder and the film Bob Roberts.
Death and Legacy
Robert Hegyes passed away on January 26, 2012, from a heart attack in Metuchen, New Jersey. He is remembered for his contributions to television and theater, as well as his dedication to teaching aspiring actors. He left behind a legacy of laughter and creativity.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| E. Nick: A Legend in His Own Mind | 1984-01-01 | Raoul |
| Just Tell Me You Love Me | 1978-01-02 | Ricky |
| Kill Crazy | 1990-11-21 | Harry Durosa |
| For Lovers Only | 1982-10-15 | Frankie Spoleto |
| Cagney & Lacey: The Return | 1994-11-06 | Esposito |
| The Pandora Project | 1998-07-15 | Enrique Gutierrez |
| Memorial: Letters from American Soldiers | 1991-01-01 | Reader |
| Law and Order | 1976-05-06 | Angelo |
| Underground Aces | 1981-01-02 | Tico |
| A Cry for Love | 1980-10-20 | Pizza Counterman |
| Bob Roberts | 1992-09-04 | Ernesto Galleano |
| The Streets of San Francisco | 1972-09-23 | |
| Cos | 1976-09-19 | |
| Lewis & Clark | 1981-10-29 | |
| The Drew Carey Show | 1995-09-13 | Robert Hegyes |
| CHiPs | 1977-09-15 | |
| Welcome Back, Kotter | 1975-09-09 | Juan Epstein |
| The Love Boat | 1977-09-24 | Danny |
| Diagnosis: Murder | 1993-10-29 | Mr. Wolf |
| Cagney & Lacey | 1982-03-25 | Manny Esposito |
| So Little Time | 2001-06-02 | Vice Principal Connor |