Little, Cleavon

Cleavon Jake Little (June 1, 1939 – October 22, 1992) was an American actor. He began his career in the late 1960s on the stage. In 1970, he starred in the Broadway production of Purlie, for which he earned both a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award. His first leading television role was that of the irreverent Dr. Jerry Noland on the ABC sitcom Temperatures Rising (1972–1974). While starring in the sitcom, Little appeared in what has become his signature role, portraying Sheriff Bart in the 1974 Mel Brooks comedy film Blazing Saddles. In the 1980s, Little continued to appear in stage productions, films, and in guest spots on television series. In 1989, he won a Primetime Emmy Award for his appearance on the NBC sitcom Dear John. He later starred in the Fox sitcom True Colors (1991–1992).