Personal info
Known for
Actor
Gender
Male
Birthday
30 October
Location
North Carolina, United States
Edit pageLeon Rippy
Biography
Leon Rippy is an American character actor known for his extensive work in film and television. Born on October 30, 1949, in Rock Hill, South Carolina, Rippy began his professional career in regional theater before moving into film and television during the 1980s. Over the years, he became recognized for portraying authoritative, rugged, and sometimes intimidating characters.
Early Life and Theater Career
Rippy developed an interest in acting during his school and college years and became involved in theatrical productions. He went on to work extensively in regional theater and founded two theater companies. He reportedly appeared in more than 70 stage productions. Before establishing himself as a full-time actor, he also worked in several different occupations, including with a circus and as a cattle-ranch foreman. He was also known for his ability as a ballet dancer.
Beginning of Film and Television Career
Rippy began appearing on screen in the early 1980s. One of his early television credits was the 1983 miniseries Chiefs. He subsequently appeared in films such as Firestarter (1984), The Color Purple (1985), Maximum Overdrive (1986), and The Bedroom Window (1987).
During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Rippy steadily built a reputation as a dependable character actor. His television appearances included Star Trek: The Next Generation, Quantum Leap, Walker, Texas Ranger, and other popular programs.
