Cliff Emmich, a remarkable and captivating individual with a flair for playing memorable roles, came into this world on December 13, 1936, in the vibrant city of Cincinnati, Ohio, where he spent his formative years before relocating to the sun-kissed metropolis of Los Angeles, California, to grow up. His father, Clifford, was a renowned entrepreneur with a successful exotic car dealership, boasting an impressive clientele comprising esteemed personalities such as the iconic Hollywood star Clark Gable, the legendary actor Gary Cooper, and the renowned entertainer Ozzie Nelson. Following his graduation from John Muir High School, Emmich took a four-year hiatus from his studies to serve his country as a photo technician in the air force, where he refined his skills and acquired invaluable experience.
After completing his military service, Emmich ventured into the world of acting, with the esteemed guidance of seasoned character actor Keenan Wynn, who persuaded him to enroll at the renowned Pasadena Playhouse, a prestigious institution renowned for its rigorous training programs and esteemed faculty. For a period of eight months, Emmich immersed himself in the Pasadena Playhouse's comprehensive curriculum, meticulously honing his craft and refining his acting abilities under the watchful eyes of seasoned instructors.
Following his completion of the Pasadena Playhouse program, Emmich embarked on a nationwide tour with the esteemed American Repertory Players, a renowned troupe of actors, musicians, and dancers, performing a diverse repertoire of productions in various cities across the United States. Additionally, Emmich spent a summer honing his skills in summer stock theatre at the Pink Garter Theatre, a historic and beloved venue located in the picturesque town of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, surrounded by the majestic Teton Range.
Emmich's cinematic journey began with a significant debut in the 1969 film "Gaily, Gaily", marking the starting point of a diverse array of memorable roles that would follow. His impressive portfolio includes a notable performance as a coroner in the 1973 sci-fi horror film "Invasion of the Bee Girls". This was swiftly followed by a memorable portrayal of a sexist business executive in the 1976 crime drama "Jackson County Jail". Emmich's ability to adapt to a wide range of characters was showcased in his subsequent roles, including a bumbling small town deputy in the 1978 action film "Barracuda". The following year, he appeared as a hospital security guard in the 1981 horror classic "Halloween II", further demonstrating his versatility as an actor. In the 1980s, Emmich continued to take on diverse roles, including an asylum doctor in the 1985 trashy horror film "Hellhole". His career continued to flourish in the 1990s, with a notable performance as a small town sheriff in the 1995 science fiction film "Digital Man".
Emmich's remarkable career has been marked by a plethora of television appearances, showcasing his versatility as a performer. Notable among these appearances are his roles in the critically acclaimed series "Crossing Jordan" (2001),the action-packed "Walker, Texas Ranger" (1993),and the crime-solving "Nash Bridges" (1996). He has also made memorable guest appearances in the popular sitcom "Coach" (1989),the iconic beachside drama "Baywatch" (1989),and the beloved mystery series "Murder, She Wrote" (1984).
Emmich's extensive television credits also include recurring roles in the drama "Knots Landing" (1979),the comedy "Night Court" (1984),and the action-packed "Hunter" (1984). He has lent his talents to the popular detective series "Riptide" (1984),the crime-solving duo "Simon & Simon" (1981),and the iconic police procedural "CHiPs" (1977). Additionally, Emmich has appeared in the sci-fi classic "Knight Rider" (1982),the superhero drama "The Incredible Hulk" (1977),the crime drama "Vega$" (1978),the fantasy anthology series "Fantasy Island" (1977),and the nostalgic sitcom "Happy Days" (1974).
Emmich's impressive television resume also includes appearances in the period drama "Little House on the Prairie" (1974),the crime-fighting series "Charlie's Angels" (1976),the gritty police drama "Baretta" (1975),and the crime-solving series "Police Woman" (1974). Finally, he has made a memorable appearance in the iconic buddy cop series "Starsky and Hutch" (1975).
Notably, Emmich's impressive professional profile is further bolstered by his membership in not one, but two prestigious organizations: the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, a testament to his dedication to the art and craft of filmmaking, and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, a reflection of his passion for the small screen and the world of television.
