L.Q. Jones

Biography

L. Q. Jones (1927–2022) was an American actor, director, and writer best known for his work in Westerns, television dramas, and cult films. He was born Justice Ellis McQueen on August 19, 1927, in Beaumont, Texas.

Career

Jones began his acting career in the 1950s and adopted the professional name L. Q. Jones. He became a familiar face in Western films and television series, frequently portraying tough, authoritative, or villainous characters.

He appeared in several films directed by Sam Peckinpah, including Ride the High Country (1962), Major Dundee (1965), The Wild Bunch (1969), and Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid (1973). His other notable film appearances included The Cowboys (1972), The Mask of Death (1960), and Casino (1995).

On television, Jones had roles in popular Western series such as Rawhide, The Virginian, Gunsmoke, and Bonanza. His extensive television work helped establish him as a dependable character actor.

Director and Writer

Jones also worked behind the camera. He wrote and directed the science-fiction film A Boy and His Dog (1975), starring Don Johnson. Based on Harlan Ellison's post-apocalyptic story, the film later developed a strong cult following and became his best-known directorial work.

Personal Life and Legacy

L. Q. Jones remained active in film and television for several decades. With his distinctive appearance and commanding screen presence, he became a recognizable character actor, particularly in Westerns and action films.

He died on July 9, 2022, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 94. He is remembered for a long career spanning acting, directing, and writing, as well as for his collaborations with some of Hollywood's most influential filmmakers.