Ted Ross

Born:June 30, 1934

Place of Birth:Zanesville, Ohio, USA

Died:September 3, 2002

Known For:Acting

Biography

Ted Ross, born Theodore Ross Roberts on June 30, 1934, in Zanesville, Ohio, was a talented American actor who left a lasting impact on both Broadway and Hollywood. He began his acting career on stage, where he showcased his immense talent and charisma. Ross's breakthrough came when he landed the iconic role of the Lion in the all-African American adaptation of The Wizard of Oz, titled The Wiz. His portrayal was so captivating that he earned a Tony Award for his performance in the original 1975 Broadway production.

Transitioning from stage to screen, Ross reprised his role as the Lion in the 1978 film adaptation of The Wiz, sharing the screen with legends like Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. His presence on screen was commanding, and his performance was praised by audiences and critics alike. Beyond The Wiz, Ross continued to leave his mark in the film industry with memorable roles in movies such as Arthur and Police Academy, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

In addition to his success in film, Ted Ross made numerous appearances on popular television sitcoms, including The Jeffersons, Benson, The Cosby Show, and its spin-off A Different World. His magnetic presence and undeniable talent endeared him to audiences across different generations. Ross's ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters made him a sought-after actor in both film and television.

Despite his busy acting career, Ted Ross remained grounded and connected to his roots. He was known for his humility and dedication to his craft, always striving to deliver his best performance in every role he undertook. In 1991, Ross graced the screen one last time in the film The Fisher King, leaving audiences with one final glimpse of his immense talent before his untimely passing.

On September 3, 2002, Ted Ross passed away due to complications from a stroke he had suffered in 1998. His legacy, however, continues to live on through his impactful contributions to the entertainment industry. Ross's ashes were scattered, but his spirit and passion for acting remain etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of watching him perform. Ted Ross will always be remembered as a gifted actor who brought joy and inspiration to audiences worldwide.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Police Academy

Captain Reed

1984

New rules enforced by the Lady Mayoress mean that sex, weight, height and intelligence need no longer be a factor for joining the Police Force. This opens the floodgates for all and sundry to enter the Police Academy, much to the chagrin of the instructors. Not everyone is there through choice, though. Social misfit Mahoney has been forced to sign up as the only alternative to a jail sentence and it doesn't take long before he falls foul of the boorish Lieutenant Harris. But before long, Mahoney realises that he is enjoying being a police cadet and decides he wants to stay... while Harris decides he wants Mahoney out!

The Wiz

Lion

1978

Dorothy Gale, a shy kindergarten teacher, is swept away to the magic land of Oz where she embarks on a quest to return home.

The Fisher King

Limo Bum

1991

Two troubled men face their terrible destinies and events of their past as they join together on a mission to find the Holy Grail and thus to save themselves.

Arthur

Bitterman

1981

Arthur is a 30-year-old child who will inherit $750 million if he complies with his family's demands and marries the woman of their choosing.

Ragtime

Black Lawyer

1981

A young black pianist becomes embroiled in the lives of an upper-class white family set among the racial tensions, infidelity, violence, and other nostalgic events in early 1900s New York City.