Mantan Moreland

Mantan Moreland was an American actor who is best known for his roles in the “Charlie Chan” series, “King of the Zombies,” and “Cabin in the Sky.” He was known for his unique brand of humor and became a popular comic relief character in films during the late 1930s and 1940s.

Personal and Family Life

Mantan Moreland was born on September 3, 1902, in Monroe, Louisiana. He was married to Hazel Henry until his death, and they had one child together, Marcella Moreland. During his early years, Mantan developed a passion for performing, often running away to join various entertainment acts, which helped him hone his comedic skills.

Career

Moreland began his career in vaudeville, performing in musical revues and comedy acts. He eventually transitioned to films, where he often played stereotypical roles such as butlers and porters. His comic talent shone in a series of horror and mystery films, particularly as Birmingham Brown in the “Charlie Chan” movies. His performances were notable for their humor and charm, even as racial attitudes towards such portrayals began to change in the 1960s.

Death and Legacy

Mantan Moreland passed away on September 28, 1973, in Hollywood, California, due to a cerebral hemorrhage. His contributions to comedy and film have since been recognized as groundbreaking, paving the way for future generations of Black actors. Today, he is remembered as a talented comic who broke barriers in Hollywood.

Filmography