Gabriel W. "Gabe" Kaplan is a widely recognized and accomplished American comedian, actor, poker commentator, and professional poker player, whose life and career have been shaped by his birth on March 31, 1945, in the culturally rich and vibrant city of Brooklyn, located in the state of New York, in the United States of America.
Kaplan's most prominent and enduring role, one that has left an indelible mark on the annals of television history, is that of Gabriel "Gabe" Kotter, the charismatic and lovable leader of a group of misfit high school students in the iconic 1970s sitcom, Welcome Back, Kotter. This iconic role has been instrumental in cementing his status as a beloved and recognizable figure, with his affable on-screen presence and witty banter still widely enjoyed and cherished by audiences of all ages.
Noted television personality and co-host, alongside the charismatic A.J. Benza, Kaplan has established himself as a mainstay on the popular Game Show Network's (GSN) High Stakes Poker series, captivating audiences with his impressive poker acumen and quick wit. Throughout his tenure on the show, Kaplan has consistently brought a unique blend of expertise and humor to the table, earning him a loyal following and widespread recognition within the world of entertainment.
Despite being replaced by the inimitable Norm Macdonald for the show's seventh season, Kaplan's influence on the realm of poker and popular culture remains substantial and far-reaching. His contributions to the world of entertainment, particularly within the realm of poker, have left a lasting imprint, cementing his status as a prominent figure in the industry.