🔍 **EPISODE ESSENTIALS**
**Title**: Unwanted Partners
**Season/Episode**: S02E22
**Original Air Date**: February 16, 1975
🎬 **PLOT SUMMARY**:
Kojak’s investigation into warring protection rackets takes a dangerous turn when rival gangs begin violently taking over neighborhood bars. The situation escalates when an undercover detective is compromised, and a power-hungry lieutenant decides to cut out his boss and take over the entire operation, leaving Kojak to navigate a treacherous web of betrayal.
⭐ **CAST HIGHLIGHTS**
– Telly Savalas (Lt. Theo Kojak)
– Dan Frazer (Capt. Frank McNeil)
– Kevin Dobson (Det. Bobby Crocker)
– **Guest Stars**: Michael DeLano (Valano), James Sutorius (Benny), Ken Clayton (Detective), Robert Darnell (Crime Boss)
🌉 **EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS**
– A classic tale of betrayal and shifting loyalties in the gritty world of protection rackets.
– The plot features a memorable performance by Michael DeLano as the power-hungry lieutenant, Valano.
– Kojak must navigate a complex case where the lines between criminals, cops, and informants are dangerously blurred.
– Directed by Sigmund Neufeld Jr. and written by the series’ regular writers, Burton Armus and Selwyn Raab.
