Abbie Hoffman was an American actor and activist who is best known for his roles in Born on the Fourth of July, Steal This Movie, and Brand X.
Personal and Family Life
Abbie Hoffman was born on November 30, 1936, in Worcester, Massachusetts. He was married twice, first to Sheila Karklin from 1960 until their divorce in 1966, and then to Anita Hoffman from 1967 until their divorce in 1980. He had three children from these marriages. Throughout his life, he faced challenges with manic depression, which contributed to his struggles.
Career and Activism
Before gaining fame, Hoffman became notable as part of the Chicago Seven and the Youth International Party, often called the “Yippies.” He was known for his political protests and creative antics, like throwing money from the New York Stock Exchange to disrupt trading. Hoffman also worked as an environmental activist while in hiding, using the alias Barry Freed.
Death and Legacy
Abbie Hoffman passed away on April 12, 1989, in New Hope, Pennsylvania, in what was ruled a suicide. His legacy continues through his contributions to social activism and political theater. Hoffman remains a symbol of counterculture and resistance, inspiring future generations of activists.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy Petting | 1989-09-22 | Self |
| Yippie | 1968-12-31 | Himself |
| My Dinner with Abbie | 1990-02-07 | Himself |
| Breathing Together: Revolution of the Electric Family | 1971-04-11 | Self |
| Brand X | 1970-05-18 | Policeman (Lawren Order) |
| The Lord of the Universe | 1974-02-02 | Himself |
| Last Summer Won’t Happen | 1968-09-01 | Himself |
| Growing Up in America | 1989-04-16 | Self |
| My Name is Abbie | 1981-01-01 | Self |
| Mayday | 1970-12-31 | Self |
| WBCN and the American Revolution | 2019-04-18 | Self (archive footage) |
| Jealous Guy: The Assassination of John Lennon | 2020-12-21 | Self (archive footage) |
| Emergency: The Living Theatre | 1968-09-09 | Self |
| TVTV: Video Revolutionaries | 2018-10-19 | Self |
| Chicago 10 | 2008-02-29 | Self (archive footage) |
| American Swing | 2009-10-17 | Self (archive footage/uncredited) |
| The Dick Cavett Show | 1968-06-06 | Self – Guest |