Michael Constantine, born Gus Efstratiou on May 22, 1927, was an accomplished American actor, renowned for his iconic portrayal of Kostas "Gus" Portokalos, the lovable and eccentric Greek father of Toula Portokalos, in the beloved film My Big Fat Greek Wedding, released in 2002.
Before gaining widespread recognition for his role in the aforementioned film, Constantine made a name for himself in television, particularly for his memorable performance as Seymour Kaufman, the long-suffering high school principal, on ABC's comedy-drama series Room 222. His outstanding portrayal earned him the prestigious Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 1970, solidifying his status as a talented actor.
Constantine's impressive television career continued to flourish, as he received critical acclaim and numerous award nominations for his role as night court magistrate Matthew J. Sirota on the 1976 sitcom Sirota's Court. This marked his second Golden Globe nomination, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and accomplished actor.
In addition to his notable television roles, Constantine reprised his iconic character, Gus Portokalos, in the 2016 sequel, My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2, delighting audiences once again with his charming and endearing performance.
Michael Constantine's remarkable acting career spanned several decades, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
