Harvey Atkin: A Look at His Life, Career, and Legacy

Harvey Atkin was one of the most beloved and respected actors of his time. His career spanned five decades and included memorable roles in television, film, and stage performances. In addition to his work in entertainment, he was also a philanthropist and a strong advocate for the children of Canada. His life and career will be discussed in detail in the following sections.

I. Introduction to Harvey Atkin and His Career

Harvey Atkin was an acclaimed Canadian actor who had a career that spanned five decades. He was best known for his roles in television and film, but also had a successful career on the stage. He was born in Toronto, Ontario, to a Jewish family and attended the University of Toronto, where he majored in English literature. After graduating, he moved to New York, where he began his career in acting. Throughout his career, he was known for his versatility and his ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles.

II. Early Life and Career Beginnings

Atkin was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, in 1942. He was raised in a Jewish family and attended the University of Toronto, where he majored in English literature. After graduating, he moved to New York and began his career in acting. He worked in off-Broadway and off-off-Broadway productions for several years before making his Broadway debut in the 1968 production of “Tenderloin”. He also appeared in numerous television commercials and had small roles in television shows.

III. Notable Film and Television Roles

Atkin is best known for his roles in film and television. He had a recurring role as Murray the Cop in the Canadian television show “C.P.P.D.”, which earned him a Gemini Award nomination. He also had roles in the films “Meatballs” and “Stripes”, and played Inspector LaRue in the “Inspector LaRue” television series. In addition, he had a long-running role in the Canadian television show “The Beachcombers”, and appeared in the television movies “The Bells of St. Mary’s” and “The Christmas Gift”.

IV. Notable Stage Performances

In addition to his work in film and television, Atkin also had a successful career in theatre. He performed in numerous stage productions, including the Broadway productions of “Tenderloin” and “The Prisoner of Second Avenue”, as well as the off-Broadway production of “A Chorus Line”. He also appeared in the Toronto productions of “My Fair Lady” and “The Music Man”.

V. Awards and Accolades

Atkin was the recipient of numerous awards and accolades throughout his career. He was nominated for a Gemini Award for his work in “C.P.P.D.”, and was awarded the Order of Canada for his contributions to the entertainment industry. He also received the Canadian Comedy Award for Best Male Performance in a Feature Film for his role in “Meatballs”.

VI. His Impact on the Entertainment Industry

Atkin had a huge impact on the entertainment industry. He was a pioneering actor who was not afraid to take risks and try new things. His versatility was unmatched, and he was able to play both comedic and dramatic roles. He was also a strong advocate for Canadian actors and was a vocal supporter of the Canadian film and television industry.

VII. Personal Life and Relationships

Atkin was married twice and had two children. He was married to actress Sharon Gless from 1974 to 1977. He later married Christine McGlade in 1984, and the couple had two children, a son and a daughter. Atkin was also a strong supporter of the children of Canada and was an advocate for the rights of children.

VIII. Philanthropic Work and Charity

Atkin was an active philanthropist and was involved in numerous charitable organizations. He was an advocate for the rights of children and was a strong supporter of the Children’s Miracle Network. He also supported a number of animal charities, including the Humane Society and the World Wildlife Fund.

IX. His Death and Legacy

Atkin passed away in July 2016 at the age of 74. He is remembered as one of the most beloved and respected actors of his time. He will be remembered for his contributions to the entertainment industry and for his philanthropic work. His legacy will live on for years to come.

X. Net Worth

Atkin had an estimated net worth of $2 million at the time of his death. He had earned his wealth through his acting career and his philanthropic work.

XI. Conclusion

Harvey Atkin had a successful career that spanned five decades. He was a beloved and respected actor who was known for his versatility and his ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles. He was also a philanthropist and a strong advocate for the children of Canada. His life and career will be remembered for years to come.