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Captain Francis Xavier "Frank" Furillo

(Daniel J. Travanti, 1981–87) Furillo is in charge of the Hill Street Precinct. He is honest, capable, and goes "by the book," though some of his colleagues find him a bit superior in attitude. He generally presents himself to be even-tempered, but on rare occasions he allows himself to get truly angry. Furillo joined the police force in 1964 and was a lieutenant at Division prior to his promotion to captain. He is generally quite well-versed in the intricacies of departmental policy. Though he was the protege of Police Chief-to-be Daniels, Furillo often disagrees with Daniels on policy and disdains his political gamesmanship. Frank is divorced from Fay Furillo, though he tolerates her histrionics and constant unannounced visits and helps her deal with her many problems. His relationship with Joyce Davenport, whom he affectionately calls "Counselor," is at first secret; by the end of season 3, they are married. The majority of episodes end with them in intimate situations, most of the time in bed, reviewing the events of the day. While on duty, Frank usually wears a three-piece suit; in one episode, (season 7, "Bald Ambition"), his colleagues are astounded by Frank wearing a sport coat (after which his wardrobe varies slightly from time to time). In the first season, Frank is revealed to be a recovering alcoholic; in season 4 he almost suffers a relapse after being stripped of his command on the orders of a vindictive Mayor Cleveland and he does relapse near the end of season 5, but quickly recovers and resumes attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in season 5's last episode.