George Maharis, a celebrated actor renowned for his portrayal of Buz Murdock in the acclaimed CBS drama series “Route 66,” has left us at the age of 94.
During his distinguished career, Maharis garnered multiple honors, among them an Emmy nomination recognizing his outstanding contributions to the series. Unfortunately, Maharis was diagnosed with hepatitis during the filming of the third season of “Route 66” in 1962, leading to a month-long hospitalization.
Regrettably, his health condition forced a temporary halt to his filming activities. Nevertheless, Maharis made a triumphant return to the series, displaying remarkable resilience and determination.
Tragically, he experienced a subsequent relapse, which necessitated his departure from the show once again. Maharis openly shared in a 2007 interview with Route 66 News that the doctor’s warning was stern: “If you don’t leave immediately, you’re at risk of either succumbing to death or suffering from chronic liver damage.”
Even after my retirement in 2019, he sent me a heartfelt card with a lovely inscription, a promise I intend to keep. Despite his chronic health challenges, Maharis continued to shine in his acting career, leaving an indelible mark with his extraordinary talents in stage musicals, television shows, and feature films. In the latter part of the 1960s, he appeared on the big screen in films like “Sylvia,” “A Covenant With Death,” “The Satan Bug,” and “The Happening,” as documented by the Hollywood Reporter.
As reported by the highly regarded New York Post, one of his last film roles took place in the gripping 1993 movie “Doppelganger,” in which he co-starred alongside Drew Barrymore. Maharis made significant contributions to television with roles like his memorable stint on ABC’s “Fantasy Island.” Furthermore, his musical abilities left a lasting impression on the music industry; his song “Teach Me Tonight” climbed to No. 25 on the prestigious Billboard charts, showcasing his versatility as a musician.
In 1973, Maharis demonstrated audacity and a willingness to push boundaries when he became only the second actor in history to participate in a candid photo shoot. Fond memories of Maharis as a respected individual and a gifted performer remain with his loved ones. On Facebook, Marc Bahan, the actor’s close friend and caring companion, paid heartfelt tributes to the late actor. George’s iconic portrayal in ‘Route 66,’ along with his outstanding stage performances, captivating singing, and poignant artwork, contributed immensely to his immense fame. Marc’s poignant statement, “Dear friend, you will be greatly missed,” beautifully encapsulated Maharis’s legacy. Most importantly, he was a kind-hearted individual who always extended a helping hand to those who required assistance.