Alva Review-Courier -

Oklahoma's contribution to the performing arts in the United States is broad and varied. Many natives of the Sooner State have become stars while working as actors, singers, dancers, comedians, etc.

I have written about several of these talented people in previous articles. The number of subjects for such discussion is, in fact, practically endless. One additional Oklahoman whose life and career deserve recognition is actor Cleavon Little.

Little was born in Chickasha on June 1, 1939. He was of African American and Native American heritage. When he was a teenager his parents moved to California where he eventually graduated from San Diego State University and earned a scholarship to study acting at the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City.

Beginning in 1967 Little appeared in major New York stage productions, including dramas, comedies, and musicals. Eventually, he performed in six Broadway productions and eight off-Broadway shows.

In 1970 he won both a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award for his starring role in the musical "Purlie." This recognition led to Little receiving more stage work and acting jobs in the film industry.

The defining role of Little's movie career was his portrayal in 1974 of the sheriff in the hilarious western spoof "Blazing Saddles."

Among the five writers credited with drafting the original screenplay were comedian Richard Pryor and Mel Brooks (who also directed and starred in the movie).

Little's other co-stars included Madeline Kahn (who picked up an Academy Award nomination), Gene Wilder, Slim Pickens, and Harvey Korman.

And although Little acted in a few other films, his movie career never "took off" despite the success (and enduring charm) of "Blazing Saddles."

Little's work in television led to starring roles in three forgettable series and guest-starring turns in several others. In 1989 he earned an Emmy Award for appearing in an episode of the sitcom "Dear John."

Shortly thereafter, however, Cleavon Little contracted colon cancer. He died of the disease at his home in Los Angeles on October 22, 1992. He was only 53 years old.