Theo, a renowned screen villain of the 1960s, was a man of many talents and experiences. Born to a father who was a fur designer, Theo himself received a Bachelor's and Master's degree in classical literature from Stanford University, where he was also an artist-in-residence. During World War II, Theo served as a lieutenant on the USS Tirante, earning a Silver Star and other citations for bravery. After the war, he trained as an actor with the company of Guthrie McClintic, specializing in Shakespearean roles.
Theo made his Broadway debut in 1947 in "Antony and Cleopatra," followed by appearances in "Medea" and "King Richard II." He also acted in the 1959 Oregon Shakespearean Festival in "Twelfth Night" and "The Life and Death of King John." His classical training and sinister appearance made him well-suited for menacing roles on screen.
Theo spent many years honing his craft in small parts before establishing himself as a skilled dialectician. He was often cast as eastern Europeans, Nazi officers, and crime figures of various ethnicities. He was particularly effective in comedic interpretations of villainy, as seen in "Get Smart" and "Hogan's Heroes." His portrayal of Zoltan Schubach in "The Last of the Secret Agents?" may have inspired the character Dr. Evil from the "Austin Powers" franchise.
Despite his typecasting, Theo occasionally broke free from his villainous roles. He was memorable as Dr. Noel Markham in "The Leeches," a standout episode of "The Invaders," and as Korob, an extra-galactic life-form, in the "Star Trek" episode "Catspaw."
