Will Sampson facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Will Sampson
Born	William Sampson Jr. (1933-09-27)September 27, 1933 Okmulgee, Oklahoma, U.S.
Died	June 3, 1987(1987-06-03) (aged 53) Houston, Texas, U.S.
Resting place	Graves Creek Cemetery, Hitchita Oklahoma
Nationality	Muscogee (Creek) Nation
Occupation	Painter, actor
Years active	1975–1987
Height	6 ft. 7 in. (2.01 m)

William Sampson Jr. (born September 27, 1933 – died June 3, 1987) was a talented Muscogee artist, actor, and rodeo performer. He was a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, an Indigenous people from the Southeastern United States. Will Sampson became famous for playing Chief Bromden in the movie One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.

He also played important roles like Crazy Horse in the 1977 western The White Buffalo. You might also know him as Taylor in Poltergeist II: The Other Side and Ten Bears in The Outlaw Josey Wales. Will Sampson was a very tall man, standing 6 feet 7 inches (2.01 meters) tall.

Early Life and Family

William “Will” Sampson Jr. was born in Okmulgee County, Oklahoma. His parents were William "Wiley" Sampson Sr. and Mabel Sampson. He was a proud member of the Muscogee Nation, a group of Indigenous people from the Southeastern Woodlands.

Will Sampson Jr. had several children. His sons Samsoche "Sam" and Lumhe "Micco" Sampson are known as the Sampson Brothers Duo. They perform traditional fancy and grass dances. Another son, Timothy "Tim" James Sampson, also became an actor.

Rodeo Career

Before he became an actor, Will Sampson was a professional rodeo performer for about 20 years. His special skill was bronco busting, which involves riding wild horses. He traveled around competing in rodeos.

It was during his time on the rodeo circuit that movie producers discovered him. They were looking for a tall Native American actor to play Chief Bromden in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Will Sampson's impressive height made him stand out.

Acting Career

Will Sampson's first acting role was as Chief Bromden in the famous movie One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. He had never acted before, but he did a great job. This role made him very well-known.

He also played Taylor the Medicine Man in the horror movie Poltergeist II. Will Sampson appeared in many other films, including Fish Hawk, The Outlaw Josey Wales, and Orca. He also had a regular role on the TV show Vega$ as Harlon Twoleaf.

Will Sampson was passionate about fair representation for Native American actors. During the filming of The White Buffalo, he stopped production when he found out that white actors were hired to play Native American roles. In 1983, he helped start the "American Indian Registry for the Performing Arts." This organization helps Native American actors find roles.

Buffalo Kill by Will Sampson

Artist

Besides acting, Will Sampson was also a talented visual artist. He created large paintings. One of his important artworks shows the Ribbon Dance of the Muscogee (Creek) people. This painting is kept at the Creek Council House Museum in Okmulgee, Oklahoma.

His artwork has also been displayed in well-known museums. These include the Gilcrease Museum and the Philbrook Museum of Art.

Legacy

Will Sampson left a lasting impact. A road in Okmulgee County, Oklahoma is named Will Sampson Road in his honor. His work helped open doors for other Native American actors in Hollywood.

His son, Tim Sampson, even appeared in an episode of the TV show "It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia." This episode paid tribute to Will Sampson's famous role as Chief Bromden.

Filmography

Will Sampson appeared in many movies and TV shows during his career.

Film Roles

Television Roles

Awards

Will Sampson was recognized for his acting.

• Genie Award 1980: Nominated for "Best Performance by a Foreign Actor" for his role in Fish Hawk.

See also

In Spanish: Will Sampson para niños