George Maharis, the beloved Hollywood star of Route 66, died recently at the age of 94. Dive into the depths of his extraordinary life and uncover hidden gems.

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Did you know that George Maharis wasn't originally cast as Buz Murdock in Route 66? He replaced actor Martin Milner just days before filming began, creating an iconic partnership with co-star Martin Milner.

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Mahris's on-screen chemistry with Martin Milner was so great that it made them one of the most beloved pairings in television history. They were not only partners in the show but also had a lifelong friendship. 

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Beyond his acting talent, George Maharis was an accomplished singer. He released several albums during his career and even had a hit single called "Teach Me Tonight" which reached the Billboard charts.

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Maharis' popularity skyrocketed in the 1960s, leading to his appearance on the cover of Time magazine in 1962. He was hailed as one of the most promising young stars of the era.

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George Maharis' appeal extended beyond the screen. He was known for his charismatic presence and had a strong following of devoted fans who admired his talent and looks.

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Despite the success, Mahari faced personal struggles. In 1974, he revealed that he was battling hepatitis and later revealed his diagnosis of the HIV virus, becoming the first public figure to do so.

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Maharis' illness forced him to retire from acting at a relatively young age. However, he channeled his energies into philanthropy, becoming an advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and supporting many charitable organizations.

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George Maharis loved car racing. He participated in various races including the famous 24 Hours of Daytona and also had his own racing team named "George Maharis Racing".

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In addition to Route 66, Maharis appeared in several other notable TV shows, including The Twilight Zone, The Alfred Hitchcock Hour, and Mission: Impossible. He showed his versatility as an actor through these varied roles.

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