Robert Drivas

Robert Drivas was a multifaceted American performer whose artistic journey spanned theater, film, television, and radio, leaving an indelible mark on mid-20th century entertainment. Born Robert Choromokos on November 21, 1935, in Coral Gables, Florida, he would become a respected actor and director known for his versatility and compelling performances.

Early Life and Artistic Formation

Drivas's passion for performance began early, rooted in his educational experiences. He studied at the University of Chicago and the University of Miami, supplementing his academic training with further artistic development at the Greek Playhouse in Athens, Greece. These formative years provided him with a robust foundation in theatrical arts, preparing him for a dynamic career across multiple entertainment mediums. His stage debut came in Coral Gables, performing in Night Must Fall, which quickly led to more significant roles. A pivotal moment occurred when he was spotted in Tea and Sympathy at a Miami theater, catching the attention of a playwright who subsequently invited him to lead in a new production. This early recognition signaled the promising trajectory of his theatrical career.

Broadway and Theatrical Achievements

Drivas made his Broadway debut in 1958, playing Ramses in The Firstborn. Throughout the 1960s, he established himself as a versatile stage performer, appearing in numerous productions that showcased his range. Notable performances included roles in One More River, The Wall, Lorenzo, and The Irregular Verb to Love. His talent was formally recognized in 1963 when he won a prestigious award for his performance in Mrs. Dally Has a Lover. As his career progressed, Drivas also emerged as a respected director, working with renowned playwrights and earning critical acclaim for productions like Legend, Cheaters, and a revival of a musical that was praised for its "smooth, inventive, and comic" staging.

Expanding into Film and Television

Concurrent with his theatrical work, Drivas developed a significant presence in film and television. His screen debut came in Cool Hand Luke (1967), where he played "Loudmouth Steve". He continued to appear in notable films like The Illustrated Man and Where It's At, demonstrating his ability to transition between mediums. Television also provided a substantial platform for Drivas, with appearances in popular shows such as Route 66, NYPD, The Defenders, The Fugitive, and Hawaii Five-O. His versatility as an actor allowed him to seamlessly move between dramatic and character-driven roles.

Radio and Later Career

In the early 1970s, Drivas expanded his artistic repertoire by appearing in radio productions. Notably, he was featured in the CBS Radio Mystery Theater, participating in at least one episode titled Death by Whose Hands in 1974. This appearance highlighted his continued engagement with diverse storytelling formats. Tragically, Drivas's promising career was cut short. He passed away on June 29, 1986, at the age of 50, succumbing to AIDS-related complications. Despite his untimely death, he left behind a rich legacy of performances that spanned stage, screen, and radio.

Legacy and Impact

Robert Drivas represented the quintessential mid-20th century performer—adaptable, talented, and committed to his craft. His ability to excel in theater, film, television, and radio demonstrated a rare versatility that set him apart from many of his contemporaries. Though his career was relatively brief, his contributions to American entertainment remain significant.

Works and Appearances

Radio

• CBS Radio Mystery Theater
• Death by Whose Hands (1974)

Television

• Route 66
• NYPD
• The Defenders
• The Fugitive
• Hawaii Five-O
• Bonanza
• Marcus Welby, M.D.
• The Wild Wild West

Film

• Cool Hand Luke (1967) - Steve "Loudmouth Steve"
• The Illustrated Man (1969) - Willie
• Where It's At (1969) - Andy
• Road Movie (1974) - Gil
• God Told Me To (1976) - David Morten
• La Fille d'Amérique (1977) - Matthew

Theater (Select Broadway Productions)

• The Firstborn (1958) - Ramses
• One More River (1960) - Jacko
• The Wall (1960)
• Lorenzo (1963) - Giorgio
• The Irregular Verb to Love (1963)
• Mrs. Dally Has a Lover (1963)