Jerry Orbach
ActingNew York City, New York, USAJerome Bernard Orbach (October 20, 1935 – December 28, 2004) was an American actor and singer. He is best known for his role as Detective Lennie Briscoe in the series Law & Order (1992–2004) and as the voice of Lumière in Disney's Beauty and the Beast (1991), as well as for being a noted musical theatre star; his prominent roles included originating the character of El Gallo in The Fantasticks, the longest-running musical play in history, as Chuck Baxter in the original production of Promises, Promises (for which he won a Tony Award), Julian Marsh in 42nd Street, and Billy Flynn in the original production of Chicago.Description above from the Wikipedia article Jerry Orbach, licensed under CC-BY-SA, full list of contributors on Wikipedia.
Leon Rippy
ActingRock Hill, South Carolina, USALeon Rippy (born October 30, 1949, Rock Hill, South Carolina) is an American character actor. Active on screen since 1983, Rippy has appeared in numerous films and recurring roles on television. He is best known for his roles as Earl the Angel on the series Saving Grace, saloon owner Tom Nuttall on the series Deadwood and militiaman John Billings in The Patriot (2000).From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
Tico Wells
Acting
Robert Trebor
Acting Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USABorn on June 7, 1953, in Philadelphia, Robert Trebor had a few bit roles before his career got going in the 1980s with small roles in such films as Gorp (1980), Turk 182 and The Purple Rose of Cairo (both 1985). His breakout role was as notorious “Son of Sam” serial killer Berkowitz in the CBS telepic Out of the Darkness (1985). The following year, Trebor had a key role opposite Roy Scheider and Ann-Margret in John Frankenheimer’s noir thriller 52 Pick-Up. During the next decade, he went on to big-screen roles in Making Mr. Right (1987), Talk Radio (1988), Universal Soldier (1992), and others.Along the way, Trebor did guest shots on such popular TV series as Miami Vice, Murphy Brown, Baywatch, Night Court, Tales from the Crypt, and more. Then came his signature role: the friendly but sometimes unscrupulous salesman Salmoneus in Hercules: The Legendary Journeys, the 1995-99 syndicated action series starring Kevin Sorbo as the demigod son of Zeus. Trebor appeared in nearly two dozen episodes spanning all five seasons and played a different character, studio chief B.S. Hollingsfoffer, for one episode late in the show’s run. He reprised the Salmoneus character for several episodes of Hercules companion series Xena: Warrior Princess, starring Lucy Lawless.Trebor had mostly film roles after the turn of the century, appearing in Dying on the Edge (2001), Jiminy Glick in Lalawood, Meet Market (both 2004), The Devil’s Rejects (2005), and, in his final screen appearance, as a producer in the Coen brothers’ Hail Caesar! (2016).
Tommy Lister Jr.
ActingCompton, California, USATommy Lister Jr., affectionately known as "Tiny," carved out a unique niche in the entertainment industry as both a formidable character actor and a professional wrestler. Born Thomas Lister, Jr. in 1958, he grew up in Compton, California, where he developed a passion for performance that would eventually lead him to the silver screen. Lister's towering presence and distinctive voice quickly set him apart, making him a memorable figure in both film and television.
His breakthrough came with the role of Deebo, the intimidating yet comically endearing bully in the cult classic Friday series. This character not only showcased Lister's ability to blend menace with humor but also became emblematic of his career, earning him a place in pop culture history. The film's success led to sequels and solidified Lister's status as a beloved character actor.
Before his foray into acting, Lister found his footing in the world of professional wrestling. Under the ring name "Zeus," he faced off against the legendary Hulk Hogan in the WWF, a role that stemmed from his appearance in the film No Holds Barred. This crossover between wrestling and film highlighted Lister's versatility and ability to captivate audiences in multiple arenas.
Beyond his defining role in Friday, Lister made a lasting impact on television with memorable guest appearances. He portrayed Klaang, the first Klingon to make contact with humans in the pilot episode of Star Trek: Enterprise, showcasing his range and willingness to take on diverse roles. Additionally, he appeared as Mr. Matlock's bodyguard in the courtroom drama Matlock, further demonstrating his ability to adapt to various characters and genres.
His contributions to music videos also deserve mention. Lister was featured in Sublime's "Santeria," where he embodied the spirit of the song, and he appeared alongside other stars in Michael Jackson's "Remember the Time," adding his unique flair to the iconic visuals. Lister's ability to cross over into music video appearances exemplified his multifaceted talent and appeal.
Throughout his career, Lister was recognized for his unique style of acting that often combined physicality with a charismatic presence. His willingness to embrace roles that showcased both strength and vulnerability made him a relatable figure to audiences. Lister's performances often left a lasting impression, ensuring that he would be remembered fondly by fans and peers alike.
Over the years, Tommy Lister Jr. received accolades for his work, though he often preferred to let his performances speak for themselves. His legacy extends beyond his filmography; he became an influential figure for aspiring actors and wrestlers, demonstrating that one can carve a distinctive path in entertainment regardless of background.
As a figure who transcended the boundaries of film, television, and wrestling, Lister's influence remains palpable. His roles continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring that his work is appreciated by both new fans and those who grew up watching his performances. Tommy Lister Jr. left an indelible mark on the industry, one that will be remembered for years to come.
Insomniacs Trivia
- Tommy Lister was blind in his right eye, a condition he lived with throughout his life.
- He was a college football player at Cal State University, Los Angeles, before pursuing acting.
- In addition to his roles in film and television, he also appeared in various commercials, showcasing his versatility.
- Lister was known for his towering physique, standing at 6 feet 5 inches tall, which contributed to his casting in roles requiring a strong physical presence.
- He had a passion for philanthropy and was involved in various charitable causes during his lifetime.
Insomniacs Take
Tommy Lister Jr.'s contributions to both film and wrestling are a testament to his diverse talent and unforgettable presence. His portrayal of Deebo remains a cultural touchstone, evoking laughter and nostalgia for fans of the Friday series. Lister's ability to blend humour with a commanding physicality set him apart in an industry that often boxes actors into specific roles. His legacy is not just about the characters he portrayed but also the joy he brought to audiences, ensuring that his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who appreciated his work.
