Who Is Woody Strode? Age, Biography and Wiki
As of 2025, Woody Strode would have celebrated his 111th birthday, had he been alive. Born in Los Angeles, California, Strode excelled in both athletics and acting, showcasing his talents as a football player in college before transitioning into a successful film career. Strode's vibrant life story is detailed on Wikipedia, highlighting his contributions to sports, particularly in football and wrestling, and his memorable roles in classic films such as "Spartacus" and "The Professionals."
| Occupation | Football Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 25, 1914 |
| Age | 80 Years |
| Birth Place | N/A |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | |
| Date of death | 31 December, 1994 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Woody Strode's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Woody Strode was known for his impressive physique, which contributed to his success in both sports and acting. He stood tall at approximately 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm) and weighed around 200 pounds (90 kg) during his prime. His athletic build was complemented by an engaging screen presence, making him a sought-after actor.
In 1948, he signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers of the AAFC, but was released before the season started, whereupon he joined the Calgary Stampeders of the Western Interprovincial Football Union in Canada, where he was a member of Calgary's 1948 Grey Cup Championship team before retiring due to injury in 1949. He broke two ribs and a shoulder. "It was like I had fought Joe Louis," he recalled.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Strode's personal life was marked by close relationships. He was married to the talented actress and dancer, Luella Strode, from 1945 until their divorce in 1962. The couple had three children, which made family a significant part of his life. While there haven't been extensive public records of Strode's dating history after his marriage, he was known to keep a relatively low profile regarding his personal relationships.
His parents were from New Orleans; one grandmother was of African-American and Cherokee descent, his grandfather was an African-American and his other grandmother was of Cree descent.
Net Worth and Salary
Though accurate figures about Woody Strode's net worth during his lifetime are challenging to ascertain, his successful sports career and acting roles suggest a comfortable financial status. In 2025, the estimated net worth for inspirational figures of his stature would range significantly based on their legacy, influence, and the resurgence of interest in classic cinema. Many speculate that Strode’s estate has only grown in value posthumously, thanks to ongoing recognition and appreciation of his work.
Strode went to Europe to make Scipio the African (1971) and did some more Westerns: The Last Rebel (1971), and The Revengers (1972) (a "regular knockdown, drag‐out western", said Strode ). He later said his salary in Italy went up to $10,000 a week. He did The Italian Connection (1972), for which he was paid $150,000.
"Race is not a factor in the world market," he said in 1981. "I once played a part written for an Irish prize fighter. I've done everything but play an Anglo-Saxon. I'd do that if I could. I'd play a Viking with blue contact lenses and a blond wig if I could. My dream is to play a Mexican bandit in the international market."
Career, Business, and Investments
Woody Strode was not just an actor; he was also a pioneering figure in bridging sports and film. After completing his education at UCLA, where he excelled in football, he played for the Los Angeles Rams before ultimately moving into acting. His iconic roles broke racial barriers, providing representation for African Americans in film during a tumultuous period in American history.
In addition to his acting career, Strode was involved in various business ventures that leveraged his fame, including endorsements and partnerships with sports brands. His legacy endures, and interest in vintage sports memorabilia linked to him continues to thrive, thereby enhancing the value of his investments.
Around the year 1939, Strode, Washington and Robinson provided the UCLA with one of its best seasons in American Football. This had given the three a boost in fame, with fans referring to them as "The Gold Dust Gang". Woody Strode was one of the end position players while Kenny was a running back.
Unable to join professional football at the time, the two participated as semi-professional players for the Hollywood Bears. When out on the road with the team, Strode had his first experience with racism, something he wasn't aware of growing up in Los Angeles. "We were unconscious of color.
We used to sit in the best seats at the Coconut Grove (a nightclub in the Ambassador Hotel) listening to Donald Novis sing. If someone said, 'there's a Negro over there,' I was just as apt as anyone to turn around and say 'Where? He also said, "On the Pacific Coast there wasn't anything we couldn't do. As we got out of the L.A.
area we found these racial tensions. Hell, we thought we were white." One instance where he became the victim of a racial barrier was when the National Football League acted in response to Caucasian players complaining about African Americans taking up job opportunities.
Social Network
The social media presence of historical figures like Woody Strode is a key area of interest for fans and enthusiasts alike. While Strode did not have a social media presence during his lifetime, numerous fan pages and tribute sites have emerged posthumously, sharing his legacy through pictures, quotes, and discussions centered around his contributions to sports and cinema.
"The big studios wanted an actor like Sidney [Poitier] or [Harry] Belafonte," recalled Strode. "And this is not being facetious, but Mr. Ford defended me; and I don't know that this is going on. He said, "Well, they're not tough enough to do what I want Sergeant Rutledge to be."
Education
Woody Strode's education at UCLA played a crucial role in shaping his future. Not only did it provide him with a solid foundation in academics, but it was also where he honed his athletic talents. The skills and discipline he cultivated during his college years were instrumental in both his sports career and his successful transition into acting.
He attended Thomas Jefferson High School in South East Los Angeles and college at UCLA, where he was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. His world-class decathlon capabilities were spearheaded by a 50 ft plus shot put (when the world record was 57 ft) and a 6ft 5in high jump (the world record at time was 6ft 10in).
Conclusion
Woody Strode remains an influential figure in American history, known for his remarkable contributions to both athletics and film. As we look towards 2025, his legacy as a trailblazer and icon continues to resonate, inspiring new generations to appreciate his work and the indomitable spirit he represented.
