Leonard Barr was an American actor best known for his roles in The Sting, Diamonds Are Forever, and various television appearances. He was also known for being Dean Martin’s uncle.
Personal and Family Life
Leonard Barr was born Leonard Barra on September 27, 1903, in West Virginia. He was of Italian descent, with both Neapolitan and Sicilian roots. Leonard was the brother of Dean Martin’s mother, Angela Crocetti, making him Martin’s uncle.
Career
Leonard Barr began his entertainment career as a stand-up comic, famous for his deadpan delivery. He first appeared on television in 1950 on The Colgate Comedy Hour, hosted by his nephew Dean Martin. After a long break, he returned to the screen in 1964 and went on to have various roles in television and film, hitting strides in the 1970s.
Death and Legacy
Leonard Barr passed away on November 22, 1980, in West Hollywood, California, at the age of 77. His career left a mark in comedy and film, particularly noted for his unique style and connection to Dean Martin.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Record City | 1978-02-08 | Sickly Man |
| Diamonds Are Forever | 1971-12-14 | Shady Tree |
| The Sting | 1973-12-25 | Burlesque House Comedian |
| Battered | 1978-09-26 | Prof. Jeremiah Hayden |
| Billy: Portrait of a Street Kid | 1977-09-12 | Hospital Roommate |
| Evil Roy Slade | 1972-02-18 | Crippled Man |
| Under the Rainbow | 1981-07-31 | Pops |
| Szysznyk | 1977-08-01 | |
| The Colgate Comedy Hour | 1950-09-10 | Self |
| Little House on the Prairie | 1974-09-11 | |
| The Odd Couple | 1970-09-24 | Arnold |
| The Tony Randall Show | 1976-09-23 | Bellhop |
| The Dean Martin Show | 1965-09-16 | |
| The Odd Couple | 1970-09-24 | Stickman |
| The Odd Couple | 1970-09-24 | Walter |
| The Mike Douglas Show | 1961-12-11 | Self |