Overview
Perry King (born April 30, 1948) is an American actor whose work spans film, television and stage. He was born in Alliance, Ohio and established a steady screen career from the 1970s onward. King became widely recognized for his television role in the mid-1980s but has appeared in a wide range of dramatic and genre projects.
Career and screen persona
King developed a reputation for playing charismatic, often slightly roguish characters. He has worked in feature films, network television series, television movies and miniseries, adapting to both leading and supporting parts. His performances are frequently noted for their confident presence and versatility across tones from action to drama.
Notable role: Riptide
King is best known to many viewers for portraying Cody Allen on the detective series Riptide (1984–1986). In that series he was one of the central investigators in a popular, episodic crime-adventure format that typified 1980s network television. The show brought him recognition among mainstream TV audiences and remains a key credit in his filmography.
Work across media
- Feature films: King appeared in a number of motion pictures, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s, building his screen résumé.
- Television: Beyond a lead series, he performed in guest roles, TV movies and mini-series, contributing to long-term visibility.
- Stage and other projects: Like many screen actors, he has also worked in theatrical productions and varied acting formats.
Legacy and later activity
While his most prominent mainstream exposure came in the 1980s, King maintained a durable career with recurring and guest appearances in subsequent decades. He is remembered for the strong, personable characters he brought to television and for being part of the era when serialized detective dramas were a network staple.