Ike Jones facts for kids

Isaac Lolette Jones (born December 23, 1929 – died October 5, 2014) was an American film producer and actor. He made history in June 1953 as the first African American to graduate from the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. He was also the first African American to work as a producer on a major movie.

Ike Jones was not widely known outside the film world until 1970. That year, he announced he had been secretly married to actress Inger Stevens. Their marriage lasted from 1961 until her death in April 1970. Stevens' brother, Carl O. Stensland, supported Jones' claim in court.

Early Life and School

Ike Jones was born in Santa Monica, California. He went to Santa Monica High School.

He later studied how to make movies at the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. While at UCLA, he also played football for the Bruins team. In 1952, he was named to the All-Pacific Coast Conference team. After finishing college, the Green Bay Packers football team chose him in the 1953 NFL Draft. However, Jones decided not to play professional football.

His Career in Film

In 1953, Jones started his career as an actor in small roles. He also worked as an assistant director for the movie The Joe Louis Story. Later in the 1950s, Jones became an assistant producer for Hill-Hecht Lancaster Company.

After that company closed, famous singer and actor Harry Belafonte hired him. Jones became the vice president of development for Harbel Productions. In the 1960s, Jones led Kell-Cole Productions, which belonged to singer Nat King Cole.

After Nat King Cole passed away, Jones was hired as a producer for the movie A Man Called Adam. This film starred Sammy Davis Jr.. This was a very important moment. It was the first time an African American was hired as a producer for a major Hollywood movie.

Personal Life and Marriage

On November 18, 1961, Ike Jones married actress Inger Stevens in Tijuana, Mexico. Jones suggested they keep their marriage a secret. They believed this would help their careers in show business.

Because of their busy careers, they spent a lot of time apart. This put a strain on their marriage, and they eventually separated. When Inger Stevens died, she did not leave a will. Jones then filed to manage her estate, which made their secret marriage public news.

Even though he could not show a marriage license, the court ruled in Jones' favor. In August 1970, he was appointed to manage her estate.

Later Years and Passing

In 1995, Ike Jones received the first-ever Oscar Micheaux Award. This award is given by the Producers Guild of America.

Ike Jones passed away on October 5, 2014, in Los Angeles. He was 84 years old. His death was due to health problems from a stroke and heart failure.

Legacy

A short street near John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, California, is named after Ike Jones. It is called Ike Jones Road.