The entertainment world mourns the loss of Robert Trebor, the beloved actor who brought joy to audiences for decades. Fans of both Hercules: The Legendary Journeys and Xena: Warrior Princess will remember Trebor fondly for his memorable performances. This article honors the life and career of Robert Trebor, exploring his impact on television and film.
Robert Trebor, ‘Hercules’ and ‘Xena’ Actor, Passes Away at 71
Published: 2025-04-10
A Life Remembered
Robert Trebor, the actor celebrated for his roles in Hercules: The Legendary Journeys and Xena: Warrior Princess, has died. He was 71. Trebor passed away March 11 in Los Angeles.
His wife, Deirdra Henings, confirmed the news. She is not yet ready too give an interview.
Trebor’s career spanned decades,but he is perhaps best known for his recurring role as Salmoneus in the Hercules series from 1995 to 1999,as well as his appearances in Xena: Warrior Princess.
From Philadelphia to the Screen
- Born: Robert alan Shenkman in Philadelphia on June 7, 1953.
- Stage Name: He adopted the stage name “Robert Trebor” (his first name spelled backward) to avoid confusion with a classmate and playwright, Robert Shenkan.
- Early Interests: Even at a young age,Trebor was involved in creative pursuits,writing and directing short films,composing music,and contributing reviews to Scholastic magazine.
- Education: He attended Northwestern University before moving to New York to pursue acting.
- Early Career: Trebor performed in Shel Silverstein’s plays and made his film debut in the 1980s movie gorp.
The Role That defined a Career
Trebor’s portrayal of Salmoneus, the frequently enough-scheming merchant in Hercules, resonated with audiences.Initially slated for only two episodes, the character’s popularity led to an expanded storyline.
Trebor humorously acknowledged the physical disparity between himself and the show’s lead, joking that Salmoneus was less muscular than Sorbo
.
He offered insight into his character’s motivations in 2001:
Salmone’s goal is to try to be a good person, but his essential mercantile instincts were constantly disturbed.
Robert Trebor, 2001
He further elaborated on Salmoneus’s moral ambiguity:
I never perceived him like a thief. Autolycus [played by Bruce Campbell] there was a thief. I, too, never perceived him as a fraudster, even tho I realized why other people coudl.
Robert Trebor,2001
Remembering Robert Trebor
Mr Trebora’s talent,humor,energy and enthusiasm will miss everyone who knew him,especially his wife,
a family statement said.
Trebor’s contributions to television and film will be remembered by fans worldwide.
Salmoneus in Action
Relive some of Salmoneus’s moast memorable moments:
