Hey there, AndoMoney here! Today, let’s dive into the financial journey of the late, great Cleavon Little. Known for his iconic role as Sheriff Bart in Blazing Saddles, Cleavon’s impressive career spanned theater, television, and film, bringing him not only awards but also a solid financial legacy.
From Broadway’s Purlie to the Emmy-winning sitcom Dear John, his work made waves in the entertainment industry. In this article, I’ll unpack Cleavon Little net worth, his career highlights, and the achievements that helped shape his financial success.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Cleavon Jake Little |
| Popular Name | Cleavon Little |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | June 1, 1939 |
| Age | 53 (Died: October 22, 1992) |
| Parents | Malachi Little |
| Siblings | 4, including DeEtta West |
| Birthplace | Chickasha, Oklahoma |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Education | American Academy of Dramatic Arts |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Valerie Wiggins (1972–1974) |
| Children | Adia Millett |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $2 million (at death) |
| Source of Wealth | Acting |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) |
What is the Net Worth of Cleavon Little in 2024?
Cleavon Little’s estimated net worth in 1992 was around $2 million, a respectable sum earned through a dynamic career in entertainment. Compared to some contemporaries, Cleavon’s net worth reflects his journey across multiple acting platforms, even if it may not reach the levels of today’s highest-paid actors.
Let’s take a quick look at some related names in his sphere to give you some perspective:
- Richard Pryor
- Mel Brooks
- Dustin Hoffman
- Valerie Wiggins
- Judd Hirsch
- Sidney Poitier
- DeEtta Little West
- Frankie Faison
- Jackie Cooper
- Herb Gardner
For more on the world’s wealthiest actors, check out our complete list of the Richest Actors.
Cleavon Little Salary and Finance Overview
Early Life and Educational Background
Cleavon Little’s journey began in Chickasha, Oklahoma, but his family soon moved to San Diego, California, where he was raised. Growing up, he showed an interest in the arts, eventually attending Kearny High School.
His commitment to theater earned him a scholarship to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, where he was named Best Actor in 1967. His education and early training were vital in developing the skills and confidence that would shape his financial path in the entertainment industry.
Key Career Milestones and Breakthroughs
Cleavon’s first big break came when he starred in Purlie, a Broadway musical that awarded him a Tony Award and Drama Desk Award. This performance was a career-defining moment, boosting his profile and setting him up for higher-paying roles.
Following Purlie, he quickly gained recognition, with more opportunities in theater and later on the big screen, significantly contributing to his financial growth.
Pivotal Roles in Film and Television
Cleavon’s Hollywood breakout came with the classic Mel Brooks comedy Blazing Saddles (1974), where he played Sheriff Bart. This role not only made him famous but also brought in significant earnings and led to other film and television opportunities.
His television success continued with roles in Temperatures Rising, Dear John (for which he won an Emmy Award), and True Colors. Each role added to his resume, raising his market value as an actor.
Major Awards and Recognitions
Awards played a massive role in Cleavon’s career. His Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical and Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Actor in a Musical put him in the spotlight, affirming his talents and making him more in demand.
Later, his Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his role in Dear John in 1989 highlighted his talent on the small screen, bolstering both his reputation and financial worth.
Financial Impact of Iconic Works
Some of Cleavon’s films, like Blazing Saddles, were instrumental in shaping his financial landscape. Blazing Saddles was a massive hit and is still regarded as a comedy classic today. This not only boosted his earnings at the time but also gave him a lasting legacy that continued to pay off posthumously, with his work celebrated by fans and new generations discovering his talent.
Personal Life and Influence on Finances
Cleavon’s personal life was relatively private. He married Valerie Wiggins in 1972, but the couple divorced two years later. His daughter, Adia Millett, is one of the legacies he left behind.
Although his private life wasn’t as publicized as his career, his family background and relationships added another dimension to his legacy, which his daughter now carries on.
Legacy and Posthumous Honors
Even after his death, Cleavon Little’s legacy lives on. In 1994, he was posthumously honored with a Hollywood Walk of Fame star.
Additionally, the Cleavon Little Scholarship was established at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, ensuring that future generations of minority students have support in pursuing their dreams in the arts, much like Cleavon did.
FAQs about Cleavon Little
What was Cleavon Little’s most famous role?
Cleavon Little’s most famous role was as Sheriff Bart in Blazing Saddles. This role cemented his status in Hollywood and remains one of his most memorable performances.
Did Cleavon Little win any awards?
Yes, he won multiple awards, including a Tony Award, Drama Desk Award, and an Emmy Award. These awards recognized his work in theater and television.
What was Cleavon Little’s family background?
Cleavon had a sister, DeEtta Little West, who is known for performing on the iconic theme song Gonna Fly Now from Rocky. He also had two other siblings.
Was Cleavon Little involved in any other projects after Blazing Saddles?
Yes, he appeared in several other television shows and films, including True Colors, MacGyver, and Dear John, where he continued to build his career.
How did Cleavon Little contribute to Broadway?
Cleavon Little’s performance in the Broadway musical Purlie earned him a Tony and Drama Desk Award, establishing him as a notable figure in theater and helping his transition to Hollywood.
Conclusion
That’s the scoop on Cleavon Little! He may be gone, but his work continues to resonate. Leave a comment, share your thoughts, or explore more celebrity profiles on AndoMoney.
