Earthy Greek player long on the Athens stage and in films before settling in Hollywood in the mid-1960s. Played everything from Greek Orthodox bishops to principled, resilient papas.
He was in the running, and even tested, for the title role in the James Bond film Goldfinger (1964). The role went to German actor Gert Fröbe.
Often remembered as playing Uncle Karras in The Exorcist (1973).
Spoke Greek fluently.
Was a lifelong supporter of The Communist Party of Greece (KKE).