Slim Pickens
Slim Pickens lived from 1919 to 1983, a career spanning 46 years. Their work continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide.
A member of the Silent Generation generation, Slim Pickens was born in 1919 in Kingsburg, California, USA and went on to become a celebrated Actor.
Louis Burton Lindley Jr. (June 29, 1919 – December 8, 1983), known professionally as Slim Pickens, was an American actor and rodeo performer. Starting off in the rodeo, Pickens transitioned to acting and appeared in dozens of movies and TV shows. For much of his career Pickens played mainly cowboy roles. he is perhaps best remembered today for his comic roles in Dr. Strangelove (1964), Blazing Saddles (1972) and 1941 (1979), and his villainous turn in One-Eyed Jacks (1961). Description above fr
"Slim Pickens' most defining career moment is arguably his role as Major T." — About Slim Pickens
| Metric | Slim Pickens | Avg Actor | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | 64 | 53 | +11 yrs |
| Career length | 46 yrs | ~35 yrs | +11 yrs |
| Based on 3888 Actor profiles in our database | |||
See also
Facts about Slim Pickens
Did you know that Slim Pickens' famous stage name was given to him by a rodeo announcer who remarked there were 'slim pickin's' for prize money in his early career?
- He started his career at age 12, riding in rodeos and eventually becoming a professional bronc rider.
- His stage name was given by a rodeo announcer who claimed there were "slim pickin's" for prize money.
- For his iconic bomb-riding scene in "Dr. Strangelove," Pickens was reportedly chosen because he could actually ride.
- He was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1982 for his contributions to the sport and western heritage.
- His distinctive voice was used for the robot character B.O.B. in Disney's 1979 sci-fi film, "The Black Hole."
Slim Pickens' most defining career moment is arguably his role as Major T.J. 'King' Kong in Stanley Kubrick's 'Dr. Strangelove.' His unforgettable performance, particularly riding a nuclear bomb like a rodeo bronc, cemented his status as a unique character actor.
Pickens left a lasting cultural impact by embodying the authentic American cowboy, bringing rugged sincerity to his roles, and surprising audiences with his deadpan humor in iconic comedic performances.