Peter Lupus is an actor celebrated for his roles in iconic television shows, but for many comedy fans, he is best remembered as the brilliantly funny Norberg in the cult classic TV series, Police Squad!. While he gained fame for his physique and dramatic roles, particularly as Willy Armitage in Mission: Impossible, it’s his comedic timing and deadpan delivery in Police Squad! that truly showcased his versatility and enduring appeal. But for those discovering or rediscovering this comedic gem, a common question arises: How Old Is Peter Lupus today?
Born on June 17, 1932, Peter Lupus is currently 91 years young. His remarkable career spans decades, transitioning from bodybuilder to actor, and leaving an indelible mark on both action and comedy genres. His role in Police Squad!, though part of a short-lived series, remains a highlight in his filmography, demonstrating a comedic talent that often went underappreciated next to his more well-known dramatic work.
Peter Lupus Before Police Squad!: From Mission: Impossible to Comedy Gold
Before captivating audiences with his comedic chops in Police Squad!, Peter Lupus was already a familiar face on television screens thanks to his role as Willy Armitage, the strongman, in the original Mission: Impossible series (1966-1973). His imposing physique and stoic demeanor were perfect for the action-packed spy series, where he often performed incredible feats of strength. This established him as a serious actor capable of handling demanding physical roles.
However, the comedic spark was always there, waiting for the right opportunity to ignite. That opportunity came in 1982 with Police Squad!, created by David Zucker, Jim Abrahams, and Jerry Zucker, the same comedic minds behind the blockbuster movie Airplane!. Police Squad! was designed as a television version of their signature style of humor: fast-paced, filled with sight gags, puns, and deadpan delivery, spoofing the tropes of police procedural dramas.
Peter Lupus as Norberg: The Hilarious Heart of Police Squad!
In Police Squad!, Peter Lupus played Officer Norberg, the partner of the bumbling but well-meaning Detective Frank Drebin, portrayed by the legendary Leslie Nielsen. While Nielsen’s Frank Drebin was the central comedic figure, Norberg, played by Lupus, was an essential part of the show’s comedic dynamic. His portrayal of Norberg was brilliantly over-the-top, yet delivered with a straight face that amplified the humor.
One of the key elements of Police Squad!’s humor was the contrast between serious acting and absurd situations. Just like in Airplane! where dramatic actors delivered ridiculous lines with utmost sincerity, Peter Lupus, known for his serious roles, embraced the silliness of Police Squad! with gusto. His physical presence, combined with his deadpan reactions to the chaotic events around him, created some of the show’s most memorable moments.
The Unique Humor of Police Squad! and Peter Lupus’ Contribution
Police Squad! was revolutionary for its time in its style of comedy. It demanded active viewing, rewarding viewers who paid attention to background gags, visual puns, and rapid-fire jokes. The writing was sharp, and the performances were crucial to selling the humor. Peter Lupus excelled in this environment, delivering lines with impeccable comedic timing.
Consider the dialogue from one episode, exemplifying the Abbott and Costello-esque wordplay:
[Frank and Ed are interviewing a witness to a shooting]
Sally: Well, I first heard the shot, and as I turned, Jim fell.
Frank: Jim Fell’s the teller?
Sally: No, Jim Johnson.
Frank: Who’s Jim Fell?
Ed: He’s the auditor, Frank.
Sally: He had the flu, so Jim… filled in.
Frank: Phil who?
Ed: Phil Din. He’s the night watchman.
Sally: Oh, if only Phil had been here…
Peter Lupus, as Norberg, often played the straight man to Leslie Nielsen’s Drebin, but his reactions and delivery were equally comedic. He was not just a supporting character; he was a vital comedic force in the show. His physical comedy, often understated but perfectly timed, added another layer of humor to Police Squad!.
Police Squad!’s Short Run and Lasting Legacy
Despite its comedic brilliance, Police Squad! was unfortunately short-lived, lasting only six episodes before being cancelled by ABC after just four episodes aired in its initial run in 1982. The reason given by the network, as Leslie Nielsen recounted, was that viewers had to “pay close attention” to get the humor – a statement that has since been widely ridiculed as one of the “stupidest reasons” for cancelling a TV series.
However, Police Squad! did not disappear into obscurity. Its unique brand of humor found a larger audience later. Matt Groening, the creator of The Simpsons, even commented that Police Squad! was “ahead of its time” and would have been a “smash” if it had been made two decades later, suggesting that audience tastes and attention spans evolved to appreciate its style of comedy.
The legacy of Police Squad! lived on through The Naked Gun movie franchise, which was a direct spin-off, bringing back Leslie Nielsen as Frank Drebin and adapting many of the jokes and comedic scenarios from the TV show. While OJ Simpson took on the role of Nordberg in the movies (spelled differently from Norberg in the series), Peter Lupus’ original portrayal remains cherished by fans of the show.
Peter Lupus Today: A Comedy Icon Remembered
Even though Police Squad! was brief, Peter Lupus’ performance as Norberg solidified his place in comedy television history. For fans asking, “how old is Peter Lupus?”, they are often driven by a desire to reconnect with a performer who brought so much laughter and joy through his work, especially in Police Squad!.
His ability to seamlessly blend into the absurd world of Police Squad!, while maintaining a believable character, is a testament to his acting skill and comedic talent. Whether you know him from Mission: Impossible or Police Squad!, Peter Lupus has had a remarkable career. And at 91 years old, he is a living legend, reminding us of the golden age of television and the timeless appeal of well-crafted comedy.
Conclusion: Celebrating Peter Lupus and the Enduring Humor of Police Squad!
Peter Lupus’ contribution to comedy, particularly his role as Norberg in Police Squad!, is undeniable. His age today, 91 years, is a celebration of a long and impactful career that has spanned genres and entertained audiences for decades. Police Squad! may have been short-lived, but it left an enduring mark on comedy, and Peter Lupus was a crucial part of its success. If you’re looking for a show that will make you laugh out loud with its fast-paced, quirky, and brilliantly performed humor, Police Squad! is a must-watch, and Peter Lupus’ performance is a comedic masterclass. So, while knowing “how old is Peter Lupus” might satisfy a curiosity, experiencing his comedic genius in Police Squad! is the real reward.
This article aims to not only answer the question “how old is Peter Lupus?” but also to celebrate his comedic talent and the enduring appeal of Police Squad!, hoping to introduce a new generation to this classic TV show and the brilliance of its cast, especially the comedic genius of Peter Lupus.
