Lionel Mark Smith was an American actor known for his roles in Spartan (2004), Magnolia (1999), and State and Main (2000). He was born on February 5, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, and passed away on February 13, 2008, in Inglewood, California.
Personal and Family Life
Lionel was one of two children born to Charles and Eva Mae Smith. His upbringing was marked by challenges, as he claimed his father was involved in drug dealing and his mother struggled with alcoholism. He served in the U.S. Army before embarking on his acting career, which began after he studied at the Goodman School of Drama in Chicago.
Career Highlights
Lionel frequently collaborated with director David Mamet and received recognition for his talent. He was nominated for a Joseph Jefferson Award in 1977 for his performance in “Sizwe Banzi is Dead” at Goodman Stage II Theatre in Chicago. His diverse roles showcased his versatility as an actor throughout his career.
Death and Legacy
Lionel Mark Smith passed away on February 13, 2008, after battling cancer. His contributions to film and theatre are remembered by fans and colleagues alike, and he left a lasting impact on the projects he was a part of, especially in the realms of independent cinema and stage productions.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| King of the Ants | 2004-07-28 | Carl |
| Galaxina | 1980-06-06 | Maurice |
| Viz Top Tips | 1996-10-21 | |
| State and Main | 2000-08-26 | Bill Smith |
| Stuck | 2007-05-21 | Sam |
| Homicide | 1991-05-28 | Charlie Olcott |
| The Postman Always Rings Twice | 1981-03-20 | Crapshooter |
| Life Among the Cannibals | 1999-03-03 | Detective Bob |
| The Mod Squad | 1999-03-26 | Lanier |
| The Spanish Prisoner | 1997-12-03 | Detective Jones |
| Things Change | 1988-10-21 | Pit Boss |
| Spartan | 2004-03-12 | Colonel Blane |
| Magnolia | 1999-12-17 | Detective |
| Chance/Trail of the Apache | 1977-01-01 | |
| Stranger in My House | 1999-01-01 | Sgt. Davis |
| Seinfeld | 1989-07-05 | Florist |
| The Shield | 2002-03-12 | Candlin |
| Beverly Hills, 90210 | 1990-10-04 | |
| The Unit | 2006-03-07 | Combat Loading Supervisor |
| St. Elsewhere | 1982-10-26 | |
| Lou Grant | 1977-09-20 | |
| Remington Steele | 1982-10-01 | Slats Kittridge |
| L.A. Law | 1986-09-15 | Steven Norman |
| T. J. Hooker | 1982-03-13 | |
| 227 | 1985-09-14 | |
| Hill Street Blues | 1981-01-15 | |
| The Zeta Project | 2001-01-27 | |
| Park Place | 1981-04-09 | |
| Batman: The Animated Series | 1992-09-05 | Bus Driver (voice) |
| Night Court | 1984-01-04 | Steven Bostwick |
| Harry and the Hendersons | 1991-01-13 | Chief Woods |