Alex Cord

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Alex Cord

Alex Cord (May 3, 1933 – August 9, 2021) was an American actor best known for his roles in television and film during the 1960s through the 1980s. Born Alexander Viespi in Floral Park, New York, Cord's career spanned over four decades, during which he became known for his distinctive voice and rugged persona. He is perhaps most recognized for his role as Archangel in the popular 1980s television series Airwolf.

Early Life

Alex Cord was born to Italian-American parents in Floral Park, New York. From a young age, he showed an interest in acting, which led him to pursue a career in the performing arts. After overcoming a severe case of polio in his youth, Cord attended New York University, where he studied drama and literature.

Career

Cord's acting career began on the stage, where he honed his craft before moving on to film and television. His first significant film role was in the 1962 movie The Chapman Report, directed by George Cukor. However, it was his role as the mysterious helicopter pilot, Archangel, in the television series Airwolf that brought him widespread recognition. Cord's filmography includes roles in Stagecoach (1966), where he starred alongside Ann-Margret and Bing Crosby, and The Brotherhood (1968), a film about the Mafia.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Cord continued to work in both television and film, appearing in numerous guest roles on popular shows of the time, including Mission: Impossible, Fantasy Island, and Murder, She Wrote. His rugged looks and deep voice made him a natural choice for roles that required a strong, masculine presence.

Personal Life

Cord was known to be a private individual, rarely speaking about his personal life in public. He was married several times and had children. Beyond acting, Cord had a passion for horseback riding and was an accomplished horseman.

Death

Alex Cord passed away on August 9, 2021, at the age of 88. His contributions to film and television have left a lasting legacy, and he is remembered fondly by fans of his work.

Legacy

Alex Cord's impact on the entertainment industry is marked by his versatility as an actor and his ability to bring depth to the characters he portrayed. His role in Airwolf remains a defining part of his career and continues to be celebrated by fans of the series.