Introduction
George Coe was an actor and voice artist who was best known for his work on Saturday Night Live (SNL) as a member of the original cast. He was also a frontier fighter who was involved in the Lincoln County War and had a connection to the infamous outlaw Billy the Kid. Coe passed away in 2015, leaving behind a legacy that continues to be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Education
George Coe was born on May 10, 1929, in Jamaica, Queens, New York. He grew up in a family of performers and was exposed to the entertainment industry from a young age. Coe attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, where he honed his acting skills and began to make a name for himself in the theater world.
Early Acting Roles
Coe’s early acting career was marked by a series of small roles in television shows and movies. He appeared in episodes of popular shows like The Twilight Zone and The Beverly Hillbillies, as well as in films like The Boston Strangler and The President’s Analyst. Coe’s talent and versatility as an actor were evident from the beginning, and he quickly became a sought-after performer in the industry.
Frontier Fighter and Billy the Kid Connection
The Lincoln County War
One of the most interesting aspects of George Coe’s life was his involvement in the Lincoln County War, a conflict that took place in New Mexico in the late 1800s. Coe was a descendant of one of the principal figures in the war, Alexander McSween, and he felt a strong connection to the events that had occurred. He even wrote a play about the war, which was performed in New York City in the 1980s.
Billy the Kid Connection
George Coe’s connection to the infamous outlaw Billy the Kid was through his great-grandfather, who was a friend and ally of Billy’s during the Lincoln County War. Coe was fascinated by the legend of Billy the Kid and spent much of his life researching and writing about him. He even portrayed Billy in a stage production of The Death of Billy the Kid.
Saturday Night Live and Beyond
SNL Original Cast Member
George Coe was a member of the original cast of Saturday Night Live, which debuted in 1975. He appeared in the first season of the show and was known for his versatility and comedic timing. Coe’s most memorable characters on the show included the “No Nonsense Man” and the “Laser Bra 2000” spokesman.
Voice Acting Work
After his time on SNL, George Coe became a prolific voice actor, lending his talents to a wide range of animated shows and movies. He was perhaps best known for his work on the animated series Archer, in which he played the character of Woodhouse. Coe’s distinctive voice and impeccable comedic timing made him a beloved figure in the world of animation.
Conclusion
George Coe was a talented actor and voice artist who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His work on Saturday Night Live and in the world of animation will continue to be remembered and celebrated by fans around the world. Coe’s connection to the frontier history of the American West and his fascination with the legend of Billy the Kid also make him a unique and intriguing figure in American history.
FAQ
Who was George Coe?
George Coe was an American actor and voice actor who was part of the original cast of Saturday Night Live (SNL) and appeared in numerous films and television shows.
What was George Coe’s role in SNL?
George Coe was a cast member in the first season of SNL in 1975. He appeared in several sketches, including “The Franken and Davis Show” and “The Pepsi Syndrome.”
What other notable roles did George Coe have?
George Coe had a long and successful career in film and television. He appeared in films such as “Kramer vs. Kramer,” “The Entity,” and “Blind Date.” He also lent his voice to numerous animated shows, including “Archer” and “The Cleveland Show.”
What is meant by “Frontier Fighter” in the title?
“Frontier Fighter” refers to George Coe’s involvement in the early days of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). He was a founding member of the guild and fought for the rights of actors during a time when the film industry was largely unregulated.
When did George Coe pass away?
George Coe passed away on July 18, 2015, at the age of 86.
