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Cleavon Little Biography

Birth Name:Cleavon Jake Little

Birth Place:Chickasha, Oklahoma, United States

Profession Actor, Soundtrack

Fast Facts

  • In 1994, he was given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
  • Won a Drama Desk Award for his work in the musical "Purlie․"
  • Earned a degree in drama from San Diego State University
  • Trained in acting at Juilliard and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts
  • Would often takes on the role of eccentric, streetwise characters
  • Would often portray outlandish, energetic characters in his various roles
  • Beat out comic Richard Pryor for the lead role in "Blazing Saddles․"

Awards

  • 1975BAFTA Film Award-Most Promising Newcomer to Leading Film Roles: nominated
  • 1989Primetime Emmy-Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series: winner