For those under the age of 40, today’s post might seem a bit odd. But for those who remember Telly Savalas and his five-year-run on the acclaimed New York City detective show Kojak – today should be a treat.
The character of Police Lt. Theo Kojak became a 70’s pop-culture icon – he even had a catch-phrase, “Who loves ya, baby?” But today, I’ll be discussing the result of another thing Kojak was known for; his trademark lollipops.
Kojak and one of his trademark lollipops.
Yes, this television detective was known for sometimes enjoying a lollipop on-screen. I’ve read that what he had on the show was actually a Tootsie Pop, though I don’t know if that was ever made clear to viewers.
These days, seeing a television detective with eccentric habits might not seem that odd, but in the mid-1970’s, it was pretty unique. Television viewers were accustomed to seeing their on-screen detectives cast in a more standard, hard-nosed mold. To be clear though; Kojak may have enjoyed a sugary treat from time-to-time, but he was not to be messed with. This was one tough cop.
Kojak at the precinct.
Kojak also enjoyed the occasional bubblegum.
This unusual confectionery association, and the public’s fascination with it, would eventually lead to the release of Kojak-branded lollipops.
Four Star Candy Company – Kojak Pops – candy display box – 1975 – Courtesy John Gavula
Unlike the Tootsie Pops that Kojak was actually enjoying on the show, Kojak Pops were a flat pop. Here’s an example of an actual wrapper from one that I added to my collection earlier this year:
Four Star Candy Company – Kojak Pops – cello candy wrapper – 1975
Kojak was a show I grew up with, but beyond that I enjoyed Telly Savalas anytime I saw him on-screen (My favorite movie with Savalas is 1970’s Kelly’s Heroes.)
I really dig the work of Savalas – so it’s fun to be able to address the man in a small way, through his unexpected association with candy.
And there you have it – the brief tale of how the character of a tough New York City police detective became a sugary treat.
See you next time!
Hi
When I was growing up in the UK (England) during the 1970’s, I remember Telly Savalas as Kojak!!!!………..although over here in the UK the “Kojak” lollipop was a “round brown ball” around 25mm in diameter which tasted of “cola” and eventually it’s soft centre transformed to “cola” flavoured bubble gum!!………….I just don’t remember the flat multi flavoured ones, I’m assuming that’s how they were marketed in the USA.
There was a round ball (similar to a Tootsie Pop) chocolate flavoured Kojak Pop sold in Spain. It’s interesting that at least three different types were sold worldwide. I’m assuming it was because of differing tastes in the countries.
Love kojak! RiP, baby!
(J Ferguson). Peoria, iL