William “Billie” Thomas Jr. (1931-1980)

William “Billie” Thomas Jr was a child actor who portrayed the character of Buckwheat in the Our Gang (Little Rascals) movie series. Thomas was born in Los Angeles, California, on March 12, 1931. Much of his early life is unknown. In 1934, three-year-old Thomas first … Read MoreWilliam “Billie” Thomas Jr. (1931-1980)

In the Heat of the West: Woody Strode, Sergeant Rutledge, and the Buffalo Soldier

In the article below independent historian Clarence Spigner analyzes Sergeant Rutledge and the other major films of the college football star, early National Football League player, and actor Woody Strode. Sergeant Rutledge is a 1960 western film from Warner Brothers and the director John Ford. … Read MoreIn the Heat of the West: Woody Strode, Sergeant Rutledge, and the Buffalo Soldier

Reg E. Cathey (1958-2018)

Best known for his roles as Norman Wilson, newspaper-man turned-political-operative in The Wire (2006 and 2008), and as Freddy Hayes in House of Cards, owner of the BBQ joint frequented by Frank Underwood (Kevin Spacey), both HBO series, Reg E. Cathey was a well-known character actor.  Nominated three times, … Read MoreReg E. Cathey (1958-2018)