Slim Pickens was an American actor who is best known for his roles in Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb, Blazing Saddles, and Will Penny.
Personal and Family Life
Slim Pickens was born as Louis Berton Lindley Jr. on June 29, 1919, in Kingsburg, California. He grew up in Hanford, California, where he started rodeoing at age 12. In 1950, he married Margaret Elizabeth Harmon, and they had three children together. Slim initially worked as a successful rodeo clown before transitioning to acting, where he gained fame for his distinctive cowboy roles.
Career Highlights
Slim Pickens built his career in westerns, becoming famous for his humorous and sometimes villainous characters. His deep Southern drawl and rugged appearance made him a memorable figure in films like Dr. Strangelove, where he portrayed Major “King” Kong, famously riding a nuclear bomb. He often found it challenging to get roles outside of the western genre, but his unique talent shone through when he did.
Death and Legacy
Slim Pickens passed away on December 8, 1983, due to brain cancer. His death marked the end of a vibrant career that entertained many, and he left behind a legacy as a beloved cowboy actor. Slim is remembered for his distinctive roles and contributions to both film and television, particularly in the comedy and western genres.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb | 1964-01-29 | Major “King” Kong |
| Will Penny | 1967-12-19 | Ike Wallerstein |
| Blazing Saddles | 1974-02-07 | Taggart |
| The Howling | 1981-01-21 | Sam Newfield |
| Tom Horn | 1980-03-28 | Sam Creedmore |
| The Getaway | 1972-12-13 | Cowboy |
| Honeysuckle Rose | 1980-07-18 | Garland |
| 1941 | 1979-12-14 | Hollis P. Wood |
| The Ballad of Cable Hogue | 1970-03-18 | Ben Fairchild |
| Hawmps! | 1976-05-20 | Naman Tucker |
| Beyond the Poseidon Adventure | 1979-05-18 | Tex |
| Never a Dull Moment | 1968-06-26 | Cowboy Schaeffer |
| Major Dundee | 1965-04-07 | Wiley |
| White Line Fever | 1975-07-16 | Duane Haller |