Clever, energetic, and undeniably talented—Little made a lasting mark on both stage and screen with his dynamic performances. The stage-trained African-American comic actor truly rose to fame with his unforgettable role as Black Bart, the hilariously unlikely sheriff in Mel Brooks’ Western spoof Blazing Saddles (1974), a performance that earned him international acclaim. But before Little became a household name, he had already begun turning heads with his standout role in Peter Yates’ John and Mary (1969), sharing the screen with stars like Dustin Hoffman and Mia Farrow. It was clear even then that Little had something special—a spark, a rhythm, a presence all his own.
By 1970, Little’s star was ascending fast. He took center stage in Ossie Davis’ vibrant musical Purlie, delivering a powerhouse performance that not only captivated audiences but also won him both a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award. Around the same time, he appeared in another significant project by Davis—the groundbreaking independent film Cotton Comes to Harlem—further showcasing his range and commitment to meaningful, culturally resonant storytelling.
Throughout his career, Little brought an electrifying energy to every role. His comedic timing was razor-sharp, fueled by a manic, live-wire intensity that kept viewers engaged from start to finish. Whether on Broadway or in front of the camera, Little stood out with his flamboyant flair and streetwise delivery, making each line feel spontaneous and authentic. With each performance, Little proved again and again why he was such a compelling force in American entertainment.
So, when it comes to Cleavon Little’s filmography, there are definitely some standout moments—and a few that didn’t quite hit the mark. If we’re talking about Cleavon Little’s highest rated movie, hands down, it’s Blazing Saddles from 1974. That film really showcased Cleavon Little’s talent and comedic timing, earning both critical acclaim and a lasting legacy. On the other end of the spectrum, Cleavon Little’s lowest rated film tends to be Once Bitten, released in 1985. While it had its fans, it just didn’t resonate the same way with audiences or critics. Overall, Cleavon Little’s career had some real highs, especially with roles like the one in Blazing Saddles, which remains a classic highlight in Cleavon Little’s acting journey.