"Baretta" is an American television series that originally aired on ABC from 1975 to 1978. Created by Stephen J. Cannell, it is a spin-off of the short-lived 1973-74 ABC series, "Toma," and follows the life of Detective Tony Baretta, played by Robert Blake. Baretta is an unconventional undercover cop with the New York Police Department who solves crimes while navigating his tumultuous personal life. The series was well-received for its mix of dark themes and humor, its memorable theme song "Keep Your Eye on the Sparrow," performed by Sammy Davis Jr., and Baretta's pet cockatoo, Fred.
▬Contents of this video▬ 00:00 - Intro 00:42 - Robert Blake 03:34 - Tom Ewell 04:36 - Michael D. Roberts 05:27 - Edward Grover 06:13 - Dana Elcar 07:14 - Outro
Despite its cult following and impact on popular culture, the legacy of "Baretta" has been marred by the controversy surrounding its lead actor, Robert Blake, and the passing of several main cast members. Robert Blake's personal life became the subject of media attention in 2001 when his wife, Bonny Lee Bakley, was shot and killed outside a restaurant in Los Angeles. Blake was arrested and charged with her murder, leading to a highly publicized trial. Although he was acquitted of the charges in 2004, he was found liable for her wrongful death in a civil trial and was ordered to pay $30 million in damages. The controversy and legal battles tarnished Blake's reputation and cast a shadow over his career and the legacy of "Baretta."
Over the years, several main cast members of "Baretta" have passed away, including Edward Grover, Dana Elcar, and Michael D. Roberts, leaving a void in the hearts of fans who cherished their performances on the show. Despite its controversies and the passing of key cast members, "Baretta" remains a classic example of 1970s television and continues to have a dedicated fan base. In this video, we’re taking a look at the Blake controversy, as well as his life and career. We’ll also talk about the careers and eventual death of several other cast members. Join Facts Verse, as we present: How Each Baretta Cast Member Died
