- Did commercials for the Pathmark supermarket chain for 3 decades earning the nickname of "Mr. Pathmark".
- Was a longtime friend of the late Robert Ludlum, best-selling author of the "Osterman Weekend" and the "Jason Bourne" novels, among others. Both men got to know each other as young, struggling actors after World War II and before Ludlum's career turned to writing.
- Once stated in an interview that when he could not find work as an actor, he earned a living by restoring and customizing cars.
- In 2001, he received the "Buster" award, an annual honour given to one who demonstrates professional excellence in the tradition of Buster Keaton. He was a close friend of Buster Keaton and Eleanor Keaton and toured with the legendary comedian on the 1950s stage with "Merton of the Movies" and in the Samuel Beckett film entitled Film (1965).
- Remained active well into his '90s with various film roles and speaking appearances.
- He's the son of a produce dealer and a folk singer.
- Close friend of actor Hans Conried.
- Became an actor thanks to the insistence of U.S. Congressman Daniel J. Flood (who was himself an amateur thespian).
- Father of Reed Karen and has two grandchildren.
- Studied acting at New York City's prestigious Neighborhood Playhouse under legendary acting coach Sanford Meisner.
- His parents, Mae S. (Freed) and Joseph H. Karnofsky, were Russian Jewish immigrants.
- Was a longtime resident in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles.
- He was a lifelong liberal Democrat.
- Profiled in "Character Kings: Hollywood's Familiar Faces Discuss the Art & Business of Acting" by Scott Voisin. (2009)
- Ex-brother-in-law of Jared Reed.
- Former son-in-law of film director Daniel Reed and Isadora Reed.
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