In the late 1970s, a television phenomenon was born. "Welcome Back Kotter" with Gabe Kaplan playing "Mr. Kotter," and the team of "sweathogs" - Vinny "I'm so confused" Barbarino (played by John Travolta), Arnold Horschack, Freddie "Hi there!" Washington, and Juan Epstein.

It was based on some of Gabe Kaplan's stand-up comedy. After "Welcome Back Kotter" ended in 1979, Gabe Kaplan did a few films, then disappeared from the entertainment scene. But that's because he had another card up his sleeve.

Gabe Kaplan is also a master poker player. In 1980, he won the first prize of $190,000 in the annual Super Bowl of Poker Tournament held in Lake Tahoe, which he also won a second time later.

In 1986, he won the Knights of The Round Table Champion's Tournament the only time it was held.

While he's never won the World Series of Poker, he's placed 2nd and 3rd many times.

I've read that his poker really made him a rich man (more than even his comedy).

So if you want to be a good poker player.... uh, become a comedian? That doesn't sound right.... :)

- Dien


Click here to relive those Sweathog days....