Career
After making his film debut in Murder, Incorporated. (1960), and the lead role in the Office-Office Broadway production of "The Brigadier" in the 1960s, he made a few television appearances before starring in the film adaption of The Connection (1961), reprising his role from the stage production. He continued to work until his death in 1974 at the age of 49, making appearances on television in Bonanza and Banacek, and in films such as The Pawnbroker (1964), Cool Hand Luke (1967), Easy Rider (1969), The Panic in Needle Park (1971), Kid Blue (1973) and Cockfighter (1974).
He is the father of jazz musician Barry Finnerty.