Julie Hovland is best known as the wife of Telly Savalas, the famous actor most recognized for his role as the tough, bald detective Theo Kojak in the iconic TV show Kojak. Although Julie was never a public figure in her own right, her life alongside Telly Savalas is a testament to a loving, long-lasting partnership that was built on mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to family.
Early Life and Background
Julie Hovland was born in 1957, in Minnesota, USA. She lived a life far removed from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood before her marriage to Telly Savalas. Growing up in a relatively quiet and modest environment, Julie was focused on building a career and personal life that reflected her grounded values. Before meeting Telly, Julie worked as a travel agent, a profession that allowed her to interact with people and experience different cultures, though her passion for travel and connection with others was never meant to draw attention to herself.
Julie Hovland Meeting Telly Savalas: A Private Love Story
Julie met Telly Savalas in the late 1970s when he was already an internationally recognized actor due to his portrayal of Kojak. The two hit it off immediately, and their relationship blossomed over the years, far away from the public eye. Unlike many celebrity couples who live under the constant gaze of media, Telly and Julie managed to build a private life that was free from unnecessary drama. They found a shared love for family, travel, and living a fulfilling life without the need for constant public attention.
Their relationship culminated in a wedding on December 22, 1984, in Clark County, Nevada, marking the beginning of a deep and enduring partnership. Julie stood by Telly through thick and thin, supporting him during both his professional successes and personal struggles. Together, they navigated the highs and lows of life in Hollywood, and their relationship became one of stability and mutual support.
Julie Hovland Family Life: Children and Shared Legacy
As a mother and stepmother, Julie was a pivotal figure in Telly’s family life. The couple had two children together:
- Christian Savalas: Their son, who has followed his own career path and continued the Savalas legacy in his own way.
- Ariana Savalas: Their daughter, a talented singer, songwriter, and performer known for her soulful voice and cabaret acts.
In addition to raising their own children, Julie also became a stepmother to Telly’s children from previous relationships. Despite the challenges of blending families, Julie and Telly’s union remained strong, providing a stable and loving environment for all of their children. Julie’s devotion to family was evident in the way she supported Telly’s children and embraced her role as a mother figure.
Telly Savalas Final Years: Julie’s Devotion
Julie’s loyalty and love for Telly were evident throughout their marriage, especially in his later years when he faced significant health challenges. Telly’s battle with cancer became a public struggle, and Julie remained by his side through it all. Telly passed away on January 22, 1994, just a day after his 72nd birthday, due to complications from bladder and prostate cancer. Julie was there, offering support, care, and love during his final moments. Her devotion to him throughout his illness demonstrated the depth of their bond.
Life After Telly: A Private Legacy
After Telly’s death, Julie chose to remain largely out of the public spotlight. She focused on raising her children and preserving the privacy that she and Telly had worked so hard to maintain during their marriage. Unlike many celebrity widows, Julie did not seek to gain media attention or share her life with the world. Instead, she chose to live quietly, away from the pressures of fame.
Her life after Telly’s passing has remained private, and there have been no major public appearances or interviews from Julie. She has stayed out of the media, choosing to live her life with dignity, away from the spotlight that so often accompanies Hollywood figures.
Julie Hovland Today
As of 2025, Julie Hovland is now in her late 60s and continues to live a life that reflects the values she and Telly held dear: family, privacy, and respect for others. Though there has been little public information about her in recent years, it is clear that she has remained a loving mother and grandmother, supporting her children and grandchildren with the same care and devotion she showed her family during Telly’s lifetime.
There are no significant media appearances or public engagements from Julie in recent years, and she remains a private figure living outside the public eye. Her legacy is largely carried on through her children, especially her daughter Ariana Savalas, who has carved out a career in music and performance, continuing to honor her father’s artistic legacy.
Julie Hovland Legacy: A Quiet but Strong Influence
Julie Hovland’s legacy is not one of fame or public accolades, but rather one of quiet strength, loyalty, and love. As the wife of a Hollywood legend, she played a key role in his personal life and in the lives of their children. Her devotion to family, her strength during Telly’s illness, and her choice to live a private life after his death all reflect a character grounded in humility, love, and service to those she cared about.
Her story is a reminder that some of the most important roles in Hollywood life are those behind the scenes, where true support and love are often offered away from the cameras. Julie’s life alongside Telly Savalas was one of mutual respect and partnership, and her legacy is woven into the enduring memories of her husband’s career and the accomplishments of their children.
Conclusion
Julie Hovland’s life may have been spent away from the public glare, but her influence on the Savalas family and her enduring love for Telly Savalas have created a legacy that continues to this day. She stands as a model of quiet strength and devotion, and although she never sought fame for herself, the story of her life is one that speaks to the importance of love, loyalty, and family in a world obsessed with public accolades.
Her life is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most significant contributions are those made out of the spotlight, with grace, dignity, and love.