John P. Ryan as a recently released convict dominates this particular Kojak episode. He plays a mean, but coolly controlled individual who believes fervently that revenge is a dish best served cold. Not only does he have it in for Telly Savalas, but he wants to go after a cop's family as well.
The strain tells on Telly Savalas as Lt. Kojak takes it out on his family and the squad. So much so that Kevin Dobson and Victor Campos even try a rather clumsy attempt at intimidation.
It's actually Detective Stavros who provides a link to another crime that puts the Manhattan South Squad in the right direction. I guess Kojak keeps him around for more than the butt of jokes.
Ryan wants to see his plan come together, it very nearly does.