Cleavon Little Filmography and Major Movie Roles
Cleavon Little was an American actor known for leading roles in film and television during the 1970s and 1980s. His most recognized movie credit is the 1974 Mel Brooks Western parody Blazing Saddles, where he played the title role of Bart. The film became a cultural landmark in American comedy cinema. Little also starred in the 1976 action thriller The Longest Yard alongside Burt Reynolds, playing the character Big Jake. He continued working in film through the 1980s, including the 1980 drama The Last Married Couple in America. His film career spanned multiple genres, from Western comedy to prison drama and romantic comedy.
Little's television movie appearances include the 1975 ABC film The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman, where he played the role of Jimmy. The production was a landmark in television history and received critical acclaim. He also appeared in the 1979 TV movie The Onion Field, based on the true crime book. His work in television films demonstrated range across serious dramatic material. Little balanced commercial projects with more socially conscious productions throughout his career.
Cleavon Little Television Career and Series Roles
Television Series and Recurring Roles
Cleavon Little's television career included prominent series roles during the 1970s and 1980s. He starred in the 1970s sitcom Good Times, appearing in multiple episodes as a guest star. Little also had a recurring role in the long-running legal drama The Defenders during the early 1960s. His television work extended into the 1980s with appearances in series such as Alice and Fantasy Island. He remained active in television until his death in 1992, taking on guest roles in shows like In Living Color.
Guest Appearances and Late Career Television
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Cleavon Little made guest appearances on popular network series. He appeared in episodes of In Living Color, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Murder, She Wrote. These guest spots kept him visible to audiences during the final phase of his career. Little also participated in television commercials and variety show appearances. His television presence remained