Introduction
Lee Evans is a name that many people recognize from his stand-up comedy and acting career. However, before he was making audiences laugh on stage and screen, he was a talented runner and track star. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the multi-talented Lee Evans and his journey from athlete to comedian and actor.
Lee Evans the Runner
Early Years
Lee Evans was born on February 25, 1947, in Madera, California. He attended San Jose State University and became a standout athlete on the track team. In 1968, he set a world record in the 400-meter dash at the Mexico City Olympics. He also won a gold medal in the 4×400-meter relay, setting another world record in the process.
Post-Olympic Career
After the Olympics, Lee Evans continued to compete in track and field. He won several national titles and set more world records. However, he also faced discrimination and racism as a Black athlete during this time. He eventually retired from track and field and turned his attention to other pursuits.
Lee Evans the Comedian
Early Career
Lee Evans began his career in comedy in the 1980s. He started out performing in small clubs and gradually built a following. He became known for his high-energy performances and physical comedy style. He also appeared on several TV shows, including The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and The Late Show with David Letterman.
Stand-Up Specials
Lee Evans released several successful stand-up specials throughout his career. Some of his most popular specials include Lee Evans Live at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Lee Evans: Wired and Wonderful, and Lee Evans: Big Live at the O2. He also performed in several live tours and shows.
Lee Evans the Actor
Early Roles
Lee Evans began acting in the 1990s, appearing in several TV shows and movies. Some of his early roles include parts in The House of Bernarda Alba, The Fifth Element, and Mousehunt. He also starred in the TV series So What Now? and The Grimleys.
Later Career
In the 2000s and 2010s, Lee Evans continued to act in movies and TV shows. He appeared in films like There’s Something About Mary, The Medallion, and The Women in Black 2: Angel of Death. He also had a recurring role in the TV series The Mentalist. However, he announced his retirement from comedy and acting in 2014, citing health reasons.
Conclusion
Lee Evans is a multi-talented performer who has excelled in several different fields. From his early days as a track star to his successful career as a comedian and actor, he has always been dedicated to his craft. While he may have retired from the spotlight, his legacy as a talented and influential performer lives on.
