He was tall, rangy, and extraordinarily handsome-not at all the way one expected a behind-the-scenes operator to look.

Unlike the old behind-the-scenes operators, the new-model publicity people have made themselves boldface names along with their clients.

Mr. Robb, who 52 years old, is a quiet, almost somber behind-the-scenes operator, soft of voice, given to dark business suits.

For one thing, they like to be known as "behind-the-scenes operators."

He is a behind-the-scenes operator working with outspoken politicians.

He was the eternal behind-the-scenes operator, not a front man.

Those crucial topics were left to the major behind-the-scenes operators, many of whom are now cashing in.

Mrs. Reagan has been referred to recently as a behind-the-scenes operator directing some of the President's public actions.

He said the racket earned its elusive behind-the-scenes operators "tens of millions of dollars each year" in profits, primarily from low-income communities.

She had been referred to as a behind-the-scenes operator who directed some of Mr. Reagan's public actions.