Actor Dennis Franz, renowned for his portrayal of Detective Andy Sipowicz on the ABC series "NYPD Blue," was recently spotted on a rare public outing with his wife, Joanie Zeck, in Montecito, California. Franz, now 81, has largely stepped back from the public eye since retiring from acting two decades ago after a 12-year run on the acclaimed police procedural.
Franz appeared nearly unrecognizable during the outing, sporting a longer, shaggier hairstyle and beard, a departure from his signature look on "NYPD Blue." He was dressed casually in a blue T-shirt, a red plaid button-down shirt, and gray cargo shorts, accessorized with a gold chain and a watch. His wife also sported a colorful plaid shirt, coordinating with his ensemble.
The actor's career began in theater before transitioning to television, where he was frequently typecast in police roles. His role as Sipowicz, his 28th police character, earned him widespread critical acclaim, including a Golden Globe Award, three Screen Actors Guild Awards, and four Primetime Emmy Awards.
Before his iconic role on "NYPD Blue," Franz starred on "Hill Street Blues" from 1981 to 1987. His film credits include appearances in Brian De Palma's "The Fury" (1978), "Dressed to Kill" (1980), "Blow Out" (1981), and "Body Double" (1984). He also appeared alongside Bruce Willis in "Die Hard 2" (1990) as airport police captain Carmine Lorenzo and in the film adaptation of "American Buffalo" (1996).
Franz last made a public appearance in March 2023, shortly after the death of Austin Majors, his former on-screen son from "NYPD Blue," who passed away at age 27. Franz, who served 11 months in Vietnam after being drafted into the Army in 1968, also worked with a theater group in Chicago before his extensive television and film career.
Most recently, Franz and his wife have been attempting to sell their Montecito mansion, which features seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms. The property was listed for $16.5 million.