Biography
Joseph Leon (8 June 1918 – 25 March 2001) was an American actor whose career spanned film, television and stage. Born in New York City, he appeared in numerous Broadway and off-Broadway productions, including replacements and original roles in plays such as California Suite, Fools and Social Security. He served as understudy to Zero Mostel in The Merchant and took over the lead role following Mostel's death during the 1977 tryouts.
In film and television Leon had supporting parts in Sweet Smell of Success (1957), Shaft (1971) as Byron Leibowitz, Sophie's Choice (1982), Daniel (1983), Brewster's Millions (1985) and Arthur 2: On the Rocks (1988). He also appeared in episodes of series including Kojak and made television films such as Skokie (1981). Leon taught drama at Hofstra University from 1966 to 1972.
