Al Waxman

Albert Samuel "Al" Waxman was raised in Toronto's Kensington Market by Polish-Jewish immigrant parents. After studying drama at the University of Western Ontario and London's Neighbourhood Playhouse, Waxman starred as convenience store owner Larry King on the CBC sitcom King of Kensington (1975–1980), a beloved cultural phenomenon watched by millions weekly.

Waxman later starred as crusty precinct lieutenant Bert Samuels on the international hit cop drama Cagney & Lacey. An active civic leader, he served as chairman of the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television and was honored with a life-sized bronze statue in Kensington Market.