Robert Ellenstein, the son of a renowned Newark dentist, grew up in his hometown of New Jersey and witnessed his father's remarkable career, serving two terms as the city's mayor.
Before entering the world of acting, Ellenstein gained valuable experience during his time in the Air Corps, where he earned a Purple Heart for his bravery in World War II.
Following his military service, Ellenstein began his acting, directing, and teaching career in Cleveland, Ohio, becoming a prominent figure in the city's theatre scene.
During the "Golden Age" of live television, Ellenstein made a name for himself by playing iconic roles, including Quasimodo in a live adaptation of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" on Robert Montgomery Presents.
Ellenstein's film debut came in 1954 with MGM's Rogue Cop, and he continued to be active in television and regional theatre, teaching theatre professionally and academically for over 50 years.
Throughout his illustrious career, Ellenstein founded several notable institutions, including the Los Angeles Academy of Stage and Cinematic Arts, The Company of Angels, and the Los Angeles Repertory Company.
Ellenstein is perhaps best known for his villainous role in the pilot episode of Moonlighting in 1985 and his portrayal of the Federation President in Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home in 1986.
Sadly, Robert Ellenstein passed away at the age of 87 on October 28, 2010, due to natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable achievements in the world of theatre and film.
