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Kojak Almost Met Superman in Donner's Original Script
27 Sep
Summary
- Early 'Superman' script envisioned a Kojak cameo.
- Mario Puzo wrote a 500-page draft for 'Superman' films.
- A revised script featured Telly Savalas with Kojak's traits.
The development of Richard Donner's 1978 film "Superman" almost saw a surprising crossover with the gritty TV detective Kojak. Initially, screenwriter Mario Puzo drafted a 500-page screenplay intended for two "Superman" movies. This extensive script was later revised by Robert Benton and David Newman.
The revised script introduced a scene set on the streets of Metropolis. While searching for Lex Luthor, Superman would have encountered a bald man in a suit. This character was identified as Telly Savalas, depicted with Kojak's characteristic lollipop and even delivering the detective's famous catchphrase, 'Who loves ya, baby?' This campier iteration of the script ultimately led to further rewrites, and the Kojak cameo did not appear in the released film.
