Johnny Lee
ActingAbout Johnny Lee
John Dotson Lee Jr. (July 4, 1898 – December 12, 1965) was an American singer, dancer, and actor known for voicing the role of Br'er Rabbit in Disney's Song of the South (1946) and as the clownish, cringing, tremulous-voiced shyster pseudo-lawyer Algonquin J. Calhoun in the CBS Amos 'n' Andy TV and radio comedy series in the early 1950s. His comedic portrayal of Calhoun was a highlight of a brilliant ensemble cast whose storylines remain eternally funny. Much of his career was spent in vaudeville, but he also performed in motion pictures, on recordings, and on television. He released a record (as "Johnnie Lee") in July 1949 called "You Can't Lose A Broken Heart" (Columbia Records # 30172), with backup vocals by The Ebonaires. Lee also starred in an all-black musical comedy called "Sugar Hill" in 1949 at Las Palmas Theatre in California. He died of a heart attack on December 12, 1965 age 67.
Johnny Lee Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of Johnny Lee reflects a career marked by diverse experimentation. Across 12 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of Johnny Lee's work falls within the Comedy genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 50% of Johnny Lee's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains The Narrow Margin, which stands out as a key performance.
Best Johnny Lee Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Johnny Lee's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie Johnny Lee has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1960 | North to Alaska | Coachman | Hit | Similar → |
| 1960 | High Time | Servant at Judge Carter's Ball (uncredited) | Average | Similar → |
| 1960 | The Rat Race | Janitor (uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1957 | The Spirit of St. Louis | Jess - Cook at Louie's Shack (uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1956 | The First Traveling Saleslady | Amos | Average | Similar → |
| 1952 | The Narrow Margin | Waiter (uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1949 | Come On, Cowboy! | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1948 | She's Too Mean for Me | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1947 | Return of Mandy's Husband | Johnny | Flop | Similar → |
| 1946 | Song of the South | Br'er Rabbit (voice) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1943 | Stormy Weather | Lyles (uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1932 | The Black King | Count of Zanzibar | Flop | Similar → |
Johnny Lee - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Johnny Lee?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Johnny Lee is "The Narrow Margin" with a rating of 7.3/10.
How many movies has Johnny Lee acted in?
Johnny Lee has been featured in at least 12 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Johnny Lee?
Other notable films include "Stormy Weather", "The Spirit of St. Louis", and "The Rat Race".