Rich Little Age, Height, Weight, Career, net Worth And More
Rich Little, a name synonymous with brilliant mimicry and voice acting, is an entertainer whose career has spanned decades. At 85 years old, Little’s talent for impersonating famous figures has made him a beloved figure in comedy, television, and voice acting. Whether you’re a fan of his early work or someone discovering him for the first time, it’s clear that Rich Little’s contribution to entertainment is unmatched.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the life and career of Rich Little, from his childhood influences to his lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Influences
Rich Little was born on November 26, 1938, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. His early years were filled with inspiration and support from his family. Growing up, Little was drawn to the world of comedy and acting, spending hours imitating famous comedians and actors.
Family Support and Inspiration
Rich’s parents, Laurence Peniston Little and Elizabeth Maud, encouraged his creative endeavors. His childhood home was filled with love and the freedom to explore his passions. This supportive environment helped foster his creativity. He was particularly inspired by comedians and performers who used their voices to create humor.
The Spark of a Comedy Career
From an early age, Little was already honing his skills. He began performing at school events and family gatherings. His remarkable ability to mimic voices amazed those around him. Soon, he was a local star, performing at community theater and building his stage presence. These early performances laid the foundation for his future success.
The Breakthrough: A Rising Star
Rich Little’s career took off in the 1960s. His big break came with his appearance on The Judy Garland Show in 1964. But it was his first appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1965 that truly launched him into stardom. His impersonations of celebrities, including John Wayne and Richard Nixon, became legendary.
Little’s unique ability to capture the voices and mannerisms of famous figures cemented his place in the entertainment industry. His career was now on a fast track to fame.
TV Appearances: A Household Name
Rich Little became a household name thanks to his numerous TV appearances. Below is a table showcasing some of his most notable television moments:
Show | Year | Role |
---|---|---|
The Judy Garland Show | 1964 | Guest Starring |
The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson | 1965 | Guest Comedian |
The Dean Martin Show | 1968 | Impressionist |
Hollywood Squares | 1970s | Panelist |
These shows allowed him to showcase his incredible range of impressions. He was a regular guest, and audiences were always eager to see which celebrity he would imitate next.
Signature Impressions: The Man of a Thousand Voices
Rich Little is best known for his mastery of celebrity impressions. He could imitate over 100 famous figures, each with precision and humor. Some of his most iconic impressions include:
- John Wayne: Perfect cowboy accent and mannerisms.
- Johnny Carson: His late-night host impersonation was spot on.
- Jimmy Stewart: Capturing his distinctive stutter and speech patterns.
Little’s ability to bring these personalities to life made his performances memorable. His impersonations were not just accurate; they were full of humor and charm.
Unique Style of Impressions
Rich Little didn’t just mimic voices; he added his own unique twist to each impression. His performances were a blend of humor and accuracy, making them both entertaining and impressive. The key to his success was his ability to balance precise vocal imitations with the personality traits of each celebrity.
Hollywood and Film Career
Rich Little’s talents were not confined to television. He also made a mark in Hollywood, where he appeared in several films. One of his most notable movie roles was in The Other Woman, a comedy that showcased his skills. He also appeared in Happy Hooker Goes to Washington, bringing his signature humor to the big screen.
Voice Acting in Animation
Little also lent his voice to animated films. His most notable work in this area was in The Raccoons TV series, where he voiced a character. His versatility as a voice actor made him a sought-after talent in both film and animation.
Collaborations with Hollywood Stars
Rich Little had the opportunity to work with some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. He shared the screen with Julie Andrews in Victor/Victoria and worked alongside Frank Sinatra. His impressive impersonation of Sinatra was highly praised, and the two formed a close friendship. Little also worked with Dean Martin, showcasing his comedic timing and versatility.
Iconic Stage Performances
Rich Little’s stage performances have always been a major part of his career. His live shows bring his impressive impersonations to life in front of a live audience. Below are a few of his memorable performances:
Performance Name | Year | Venue |
---|---|---|
Rich Little Live | 2020 | Las Vegas |
Icon of Comedy | 2018 | New York |
Celebrity Exposure | 2015 | Los Angeles |
Each performance showcases Little’s incredible ability to entertain and connect with his audience. He brings characters to life with a unique blend of humor, precision, and energy.
Memorable Routines
Rich Little’s routines are unforgettable. Some of his most iconic routines include:
- Johnny Carson: His impersonation of Carson was both humorous and spot-on.
- Ronald Reagan: Fans loved his impersonation of the former president.
- Frank Sinatra: Little’s tribute to Sinatra was legendary.
Each routine was full of humor and wit, leaving audiences in stitches.
A Legacy in Comedy
Rich Little’s impact on comedy is undeniable. He has inspired countless comedians with his unique style and ability to imitate celebrities. His dedication to his craft has set a high standard for the world of comedy.
Influence on Comedians
Many comedians today look up to Rich Little for his exceptional talent and influence. His technique for imitating voices has been adopted by emerging talents, and his impact continues to be felt in the comedy world.
Awards and Honors
Rich Little’s remarkable career has earned him numerous awards and honors. Some of the most notable include:
Award | Year | Category |
---|---|---|
Emmy Award | 1979 | Outstanding Voice Actor |
Hollywood Walk of Fame | 1983 | Star on the Walk of Fame |
Canadian Comedy Hall of Fame | 2007 | Lifetime Achievement Award |
These accolades highlight his significant contributions to the entertainment world.
Personal Life
Rich Little’s personal life has been just as colorful as his career. He has been married four times, with his most recent wife being Catherine Brown. His family has always been a source of support, and they have helped shape the person he is today.
Philanthropy
Rich Little is also known for his charitable work. He has supported various causes, including children’s hospitals and organizations for veterans. He often uses his talents to entertain at fundraising events, helping to raise money for those in need.
Enduring Relevance: Age is Just a Number
Even at 85, Rich Little’s influence in the entertainment industry remains strong. His talent for impersonation is as sharp as ever, and he continues to perform for fans of all ages.
A Modern Look
Rich Little has adapted to the times and maintains a strong presence in modern entertainment. He still performs in comedy clubs and theaters, where audiences continue to enjoy his classic impressions. His shows are often sold out, a testament to his enduring popularity.
Social Media Presence
Rich Little has embraced social media, using platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube to stay connected with fans. He shares updates, personal stories, and videos of his famous impressions. His social media presence ensures that his legacy continues to reach a global audience.
Here’s a quick look at Rich Little’s social media following:
Platform | Followers | Content Type |
---|---|---|
50,000+ | Updates, Jokes, Dates | |
70,000+ | Personal Stories, Videos | |
YouTube | 30,000+ | Impression Videos, Interviews |
Rich Little’s Net Worth
As of 2024, Rich Little’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. His wealth comes from decades of work in television, film, voice acting, and live performances. Though his earnings may not be as high as they once were, he remains a prominent figure in the entertainment world.
Here’s a breakdown of his net worth over the past six years:
Year | Annual Net Worth | Monthly Income | Annual Income |
---|---|---|---|
2019 | $4.2 million | $50,000 | $600,000 |
2020 | $4.4 million | $52,000 | $624,000 |
2021 | $4.6 million | $53,000 | $636,000 |
2022 | $4.8 million | $55,000 | $660,000 |
2023 | $5.0 million | $57,000 | $684,000 |
2024 | $5.0 million | $58,000 | $696,000 |
Final Thoughts
Rich Little’s legacy in the entertainment world is secure. His extraordinary talent for mimicry has entertained millions, and his influence continues to inspire new generations of comedians. Despite his age, he remains active in his career, delighting audiences with his timeless impressions. Rich Little is truly a master of his craft, and his contributions to comedy and voice acting will never be forgotten.