TV's Kojak is a fictional character created by Abby Mann and portrayed by actor Telly Savalas. He was the lead character in the television series Kojak, which ran from 1973 to 1978. Kojak was a New York City Police Department detective lieutenant who solved crimes with his 'no-nonsense' style. He was known for his trademark lollipop and catchphrase 'Who loves ya, baby?'. Theo was Kojak's first name.