Burton Gilliam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Burton Gilliam
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Gilliam at the 2019 GalaxyCon Raleigh
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| Born | August 9, 1938 |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years active | 1973–present |
| Spouse(s) | Susan Gilliam |
| Children | 2 |
| Relatives | Hollie Vise (granddaughter) |
Burton Gilliam is an American actor born on August 9, 1938. He is well-known for his memorable roles in movies from the 1970s, such as Blazing Saddles and Paper Moon. He also made funny guest appearances in films like Back to the Future, Part III and Honeymoon in Vegas.
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About Burton Gilliam
Early Life and Sports
Before becoming an actor, Burton Gilliam was a talented boxer. He was part of the Coast Guard's boxing team. He won many of his fights, with a record of 201 wins out of 217 matches. After his boxing career, he continued to be involved in the sport by working as a referee in California for many years.
Acting Career Highlights
Burton Gilliam started his acting career while working as a firefighter in Dallas. His first movie role was as "Floyd," a desk clerk, in the film Paper Moon in 1973. He then appeared in other popular movies.
One of his most famous roles was in the movie Blazing Saddles. In this film, he played a villain who said very mean things to the other characters. Gilliam felt uncomfortable saying these lines because they were hurtful. The movie's hero, played by Cleavon Little, reminded him that it was just a part of the script and that his character was clearly shown as a bad guy. Gilliam also felt a bit shy about being in a famous comedic scene in the movie.
He also appeared in movies like Honeymoon in Vegas, Thunderbolt and Lightfoot, and Fletch. On television, he had roles in shows such as Charlie's Angels, The A-Team, and The Dukes of Hazzard. He was also a regular on the TV show Evening Shade.
Personal Life and Family
Burton Gilliam was born in Dallas, Texas. Today, he lives with his wife, Susan, in Allen, Texas. They have two children and four grandchildren. His granddaughter, Hollie Vise, is a very successful former artistic gymnast who was a world champion.
Gilliam finished high school at Woodrow Wilson High School in 1956. In 2004, he was honored by being added to his high school's hall of fame. In 2018, he was the grand marshal for the Dallas St. Patrick's Day parade, which is a big honor.
Selected Film and TV Roles
Burton Gilliam has appeared in many films and television shows throughout his career. Here are some of his notable roles:
Films
- 1973 Paper Moon as Floyd, Desk Clerk
- 1974 Blazing Saddles as Lyle
- 1974 Thunderbolt and Lightfoot as Welder
- 1975 Farewell, My Lovely as Cowboy
- 1985 Fletch as Bud
- 1990 Back to the Future Part III as Elmer H. Johnson, Colt Gun Salesman
- 1992 Honeymoon in Vegas as Roy Bacon, Elvis Impersonator
- 1994 The Getaway as Gollie
Television Shows
- 1977 Charlie's Angels as Ulmer
- 1976-1978 Alice as Buford Baker / Jimmie Joe Castleberry
- 1979-1982 The Dukes of Hazzard as Heep / Tom Colt
- 1983 The A-Team as Sheriff Jeff Lewis
- 1990-1994 Evening Shade as Virgil
- 1999 Walker, Texas Ranger as Frank
