Leigh Whipper
ActingAbout Leigh Whipper
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Leigh Rollin Whipper (October 29, 1876 – July 26, 1975) was an American actor on the stage and in motion pictures. He was the first African American to join the Actors' Equity Association, and one of the founders of the Negro Actors Guild of America. He is best known for creating the role of Crooks in the original Broadway production of Of Mice and Men, which he reprised in the 1939 film version. Educated at Howard University Law School, he left in 1895 and never practiced as a lawyer. Without any dramatic training, he made his first Broadway appearance in Georgia Minstrels. His first film role was in the 1920 silent film The Symbol of the Unconquered. During the Second World War, Whipper was a member of the steering committee of Negro Division the Hollywood Victory Committee.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Leigh Whipper reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 21 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Drama
The majority of Leigh Whipper's filmography leans towards the Drama genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 14% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Leigh Whipper remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in The Ox-Bow Incident, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Leigh Whipper Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Leigh Whipper's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Leigh Whipper.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1957 | The Young Don't Cry | Doosy | Average | Similar → |
| 1955 | The Shrike | Mr. Carlisle | Average | Similar → |
| 1947 | Untamed Fury | Uncle Gabe | Average | Similar → |
| 1946 | Undercurrent | George | Average | Similar → |
| 1946 | Young Widow | Nate (Uncredited) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1945 | The Negro Sailor | Editor | Flop | Similar → |
| 1945 | The Hidden Eye | Alistair | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1943 | Happy Land | Old Ben (uncredited) | Average | Similar → |
| 1943 | Mission to Moscow | Haile Selassie (uncredited) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1943 | The Ox-Bow Incident | Sparks (uncredited) | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1942 | White Cargo | Jim Fish | Average | Similar → |
| 1942 | Heart of the Golden West | Rango | Flop | Similar → |
| 1942 | The Vanishing Virginian | Uncle Josh | Average | Similar → |
| 1941 | Bahama Passage | Morales | Average | Similar → |
| 1941 | King of the Zombies | Momba | Flop | Similar → |
| 1941 | Road to Zanzibar | Scarface | Average | Similar → |
| 1941 | Virginia | Ezechial | Flop | Similar → |
| 1941 | Robin Hood of the Pecos | Kezeye | Flop | Similar → |
| 1939 | Of Mice and Men | Crooks | Hit | Similar → |
| 1920 | The Symbol of the Unconquered | Tugi - an Indian Fakir | Flop | Similar → |
| 1920 | Within Our Gates | - | Average | Similar → |
Leigh Whipper - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Leigh Whipper?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Leigh Whipper is "The Ox-Bow Incident" with a rating of 7.7/10.
How many movies has Leigh Whipper acted in?
Leigh Whipper has been featured in at least 21 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Leigh Whipper?
Other notable films include "The Hidden Eye", "Of Mice and Men", and "Road to Zanzibar".