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Cleavon LittleAmerican theater and film actor
Date of Birth: 01.06.1939
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Cleavon Little: A Master of Stage and Screen
- Stage Success
- Film and Television Career
- Continued Success in the 1980s
- Later Years
- Legacy
Cleavon Little: A Master of Stage and Screen
Early Life and EducationCleavon Little, born in Chickasha, Oklahoma, in 1939, spent his formative years in California. After graduating from San Diego City College, he pursued a degree in Drama at San Diego State University. His insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City and culminated in further training at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Stage Success
Little's professional debut came in 1967 with "The Village Gate" off-Broadway production. He made his Broadway debut in "Jimmy Shine" in 1968. His breakout performance came in 1970, earning him a Tony Award for his role in the musical "Purlie." Throughout the 1970s, he appeared in notable Broadway productions such as "Narrow Road to the Deep North," "All Over Town," and "The Poison Tree."
Film and Television Career
In the late 1960s, Little ventured into film and television. His first film credits include "What's So Bad About Feeling Good?" and "John and Mary." He also appeared in television series such as "Another World" and "Felony Squad." His role in the 1970 comedy action film "Cotton Comes to Harlem" further cemented his place in the industry.
Little's most iconic role came in 1974 as Sheriff Bart in the highly acclaimed comedy "Blazing Saddles." Another memorable performance was as Dr. Jerry Noland in the popular television series "Temperatures Rising."
Continued Success in the 1980s
Little's popularity soared in the 1980s, leading to roles in numerous comedy films, including "High Risk" (1981), "Jimmy the Kid" (1982), "Once Bitten" (1985), and "Fletch Lives" (1989). He also starred in the action thriller "Toy Soldiers" (1984) and his final Broadway performance in "I'm Not Rappaport."
Later Years
Despite battling a persistent stomach ulcer, Little continued to work tirelessly, appearing in several television series in his later years. His final role was in "Tales from the Crypt" in 1992.
Legacy
Cleavon Little passed away prematurely at the age of 53 on October 22, 1992, due to colon cancer. He was cremated in Sherman Oaks, California. His memory lives on as a talented actor who brought joy to audiences with his exceptional performances on stage and screen.
