**Barry Newman** (Queens, 1937) is an American actor. He is mainly remembered for his iconic role as Kowalski in **"Vanishing Point"** (1971), a cult film in which he portrayed a former racing driver and Vietnam veteran who embarks on a frantic cross-desert journey, symbolizing rebellion and freedom.

Even before that, in **"The Lawyer"** (1970), he had established his archetype: intelligent, intense characters, often lawyers or individuals of integrity battling against the system. This image was further solidified on television with the popular series **"Petrocelli"**. His acting was characterized by a quiet determination and a magnetic presence, making him ideal for roles as reluctant heroes or charismatic figures with a strong moral code. In subsequent years, he continued to act in supporting roles in film and TV.