Bob Kelljan, born Robert Kelljchian on June 23, 1930, in Union City, New Jersey, embarked on a show-business career that spanned multiple mediums and genres. Initially, he appeared as an actor in several notable television shows, including episodes of The Twilight Zone (1959) and The Outer Limits (1963). He also made cameo appearances in films such as Hells Angels on Wheels (1967) and Psych-Out (1968).
Kelljan transitioned to filmmaking, making his debut as writer and co-director of the controversial drama Flesh of My Flesh (1969). He then achieved significant commercial success with the drive-in horror hit Count Yorga, Vampire (1970) and its equally impressive sequel, The Return of Count Yorga (1971). His subsequent theatrical features included the blaxploitation film Scream Blacula Scream (1973),the vigilante revenge exploitation film Act of Vengeance (1974),and the redneck action romp Black Oak Conspiracy (1977).
In addition to his work in film, Kelljan also directed episodes of various television shows, such as Hill Street Blues (1981),Bring 'Em Back Alive (1982),Fame (1982),Police Story (1973),Charlie's Angels (1976),The Dukes of Hazzard (1979),Vega$ (1977),Starsky and Hutch (1975),and Wonder Woman (1975).
Tragically, Kelljan's life was cut short when he died from cancer at the age of 52 on November 25, 1982.
