- Born
- Died
- Melvin Van Peebles was born on August 21, 1932 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. He was an actor and writer, known for The Shining (1997), Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song (1971) and Don't Play Us Cheap (1972). He was married to Maria Marx. He died on September 21, 2021 in Manhattan, New York City, New York, USA.
- SpouseMaria Marx(May 31, 1956 - ?) (divorced, 4 children)
- ChildrenMarguerite Van Peebles
- ParentsEdwin GriffinMarion Pebbles
- RelativesMaya Van Peebles(Grandchild)Marley Van Peebles(Grandchild)Roman Van(Grandchild)Ronald Van Jr.(Grandchild)Mandela Van Peebles(Grandchild)Morgana Van Peebles(Grandchild)Makaylo Van Peebles(Grandchild)
- Is portrayed by his son Mario Van Peebles in Baadasssss! (2003)
- Is the subject of How to Eat Your Watermelon in White Company (and Enjoy It) (2005).
- Has been nominated for three Tony Awards: in 1972, as Best Book (Musical) and Best Score, as both Composer and Lyricist, for "Ain't Supposed to Die a Natural Death;" and in 1973, as Best Book (Musical) for "Don't Play Us Cheap."
- He received a bachelor's degree in English literature from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1953. He was also in Air Force ROTC, and after graduating, he spent three years as a flight navigator.
- Member of the 'Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' (AMPAS) since 2016.
- [about his somewhat eccentric taste in antiques] Some people get a sense of being alive by shopping and spending money. I get that feeling by giving unwanted things a new life.
- [about criticism of his "eccentric" taste in antiques] They laughed at Columbus when he said the world was round, too.
- Don't ask me something if you don't want to know. Because I will tell you...Why not have fun, man? If I feel like doing something, I just go ahead and do it.
- I'm not going to let the accolades come to me when I'm in a wheelchair. 'Get a little more feeble, Melvin, and we'll recognize you.' Right now I'm a little too dangerous. I intend to stay dangerous.
- I make a film like I cook for friends. I hope they like it, but if they don't, I'm prepared to enjoy it all by myself.
- Watermelon Man (1970) - $70,000
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