Starsky and Hutch Star Passes Away

Bernie Hamilton, best known for his role as the no-nonsense police captain Harold Dobey on the 1970s TV series, Starsky and Hutch, has passed away at the age of 80. The Associated Press reported that Hamilton died of cardiac arrest Tuesday night at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. He is survived by his son, Raoul.

Born in Los Angeles in 1928, Hamilton ran away from his home during his teenage years. He attended Oakland Technical High School where he participated in football and got his start in acting.

Although Hamilton has appeared in over 20 films over the span of his career, he is still most recognized for his portrayal of the straight-laced, by-the-book captain from Starsky and Hutch.

After the end of the TV series, Hamilton spent 20 years in the music business as an R&B and gospel music producer under the record label known as Chocolate Snowman.