Biff Elliot, From Mike Hammer to 'Star Trek,' Dies at 89

Star Trek fans recall Biff Elliot from one of the original series's most classic episodes, "The Devil in the Dark" with a massive black blob that swallowed up people.

Biff, who was born as Leon Shalek, died Aug. 15 at his home in Studio City at 89 years old. He was born July 26, 1923 and is best known for his 1953 role as popular detective Mike Hammer.

He was also in the movie  I, the Jury, and became a prominent sportscaster.

His official fan website is: http://biffelliot.com and posted the sad announcement of his death.

He was known as a child as "Bith," but it later became "Biff." He boxed under the name of "Biff Harris." He was also known locally as an acting coach.

Other movies he appeared in include: That's Life, Save the Tiger, PT109, Good Morning Miss Dove and House of Bamboo.

On TV he was in: Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Starman, CHIPS, Planet of the Apes, Cannon, The F.B.I., Bonanza, The Dick Van Dyke Show, Hawaiian Eye, Route 66, 77 Sunset Strip, Perry Mason and Lux Video Theatre. 

He is survived by his wife Connie; many nieces and nephews; and his cat, Lionel. A memorial service will be planned at a later date.

Donations in his memory can be made to Actors and Others for Animals, the Actors Fund, the Motion Picture and Television Fund.