Al Campanis was an American actor who is best known for Big Leaguer, This Is Your Life, and The Red Rowe Show.
Personal and Family Life
Al Campanis was born on November 2, 1916, in Kos, Greece, and moved to the United States at a young age. He was married to Bess, and together they had two children. Bess sadly passed away on June 5, 1976.
Career
Campanis wasn’t just an actor; he was also known for his role as the general manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team from 1968 to 1987. His career took a controversial turn when he made remarks regarding African Americans in baseball, leading to his dismissal shortly after the comments were aired on ABC’s Nightline in 1987.
Death and Legacy
Al Campanis died on June 21, 1998, in Fullerton, California, due to coronary artery disease. His legacy is marked by his contributions to baseball and his appearances in television and film, although his remarks also left a lasting impact on discussions about race in sports.
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Big Leaguer | 1953 | Al Campanis |
| This Is Your Life | 1970 | Self |
| The Red Rowe Show | 1959 | Self |