RETURN TO INDEX
Born Name:
Henry Greenberg Cohen Sandler Weinblatt
Born Date:
October 26, 1931
Born Place:
Harlem, New York City
Died Date:
Died Place:
Occupations:
Actor, comedian, author, speaker, teacher, mixed martial artist, professional wrestler
Brief Biography:
Hank Garrett is known for his role as Officer Nicholson on Car 54, Where Are You? and for his tough-guy roles in films like Three Days of the Condor. Raised in Harlem, he transitioned from a 1950s wrestling career into comedy and acting, later authoring his memoir, From Harlem Hoodlum to Hollywood Heavyweight.
Early Life and Wrestling Career:
Henry Greenberg Cohen Sandler Weinblatt grew up in Harlem.
Wrestling: Began powerlifting at 13 for protection and wrestled professionally (1957–1966) as "The Minnesota Farm Boy".
Early Influence: As a troubled youth, he was mentored by Sammy Davis Jr. and Willie Bryant, who helped him find work in the entertainment industry.
Acting and Comedy Career:
Television: Best known as Officer Ed Nicholson on Car 54, Where Are You? (1961–1963).
Film: Notable roles include a hitman in Three Days of the Condor (1975)—where he broke Robert Redford's nose during a fight scene—and appearances in Serpico, Death Wish, and The Producers.
Voice Acting: Provided voices for G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero (Dial-Tone) and Garfield & Friends.
Comedy: Performed on the Borscht Belt circuit and was the first white comedian to perform at the Apollo Theater in Harlem.
Personal Life and Later Years:
Physical Training: Maintained a lifelong dedication to bodybuilding and karate, later working as a self-defense instructor.
Author: Documented his life in the book From Harlem Hoodlum to Hollywood Heavyweight.
Philanthropy: Active in work with prisoners, veterans, and at-risk youth.