Cleavon Little

Movie Actor

Birthday June 1, 1939

Birth Sign Gemini

Birthplace Chickasha, OK

DEATH DATE Oct 22, 1992 (53)

#167142 Most Popular

About

He played the black Sheriff Bart in the classic Mel Brooks film, Blazing Saddles. His other credits include ALF, The Love Boat, Fantasy Island, and Greased Lightning.

Before Fame

He was classically trained he studied at Julliard and acted off-Broadway in Purlie, which earned him a Tony Award.

Trivia

Societal racism barred him from making the leap to important roles in Broadway and he had to settle for comedy roles.

Family Life

He was born in Chickasha, Oklahoma. His sister was singer DeEtta Little and he was married to Valerie Wiggins from 1972-1974.

Associated With

Richard Pryor wrote the screenplay for Blazing Saddles, intending to play the sheriff role. But his provocative racial comedy routines made the studio executives hesitant to cast him.