Slim Pickens, born Louis Bert Lindley Jr., was a versatile performer known for his cowboy roles in Western films such as “Blazing Saddles,” “Dr. Strangelove,” and “The Ballad of Cable Hogue.” Born on June 29, 1919, in Kingsburg, California, he began his career in entertainment as a rodeo clown before moving on to film and television.

Pickens was most notably recognized for his portrayal of Major Kong in the 1964 classic satire film, “Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb.” In the film, he played a gung-ho Air Force pilot who rides a nuclear bomb to his death as it is dropped on a Russian city. This scene became one of the most iconic and enduring images in cinematic history. “Dr. Strangelove” received critical acclaim and was nominated for four Academy Awards.

In addition to his acting career, Pickens was also a skilled horseman, and his talent was showcased in many films, particularly westerns. He often played the role of the rough and tough cowboy in films such as “One-Eyed Jacks” and “The Texans.”

Pickens’ contributions to the entertainment industry were significant, and his talent was widely recognized. He received multiple award nominations, including a Golden Globe nomination for “One-Eyed Jacks.” He was also inducted into the Cowboy Hall of Fame in 1979.

However, despite his successful career, Pickens’ personal life was not without struggles. He battled alcoholism and had several brushes with the law. He was arrested for drunk driving in 1974, and in 1979, he was arrested for assaulting a man in a bar. His struggles with alcohol addiction were evident on the set of “Blazing Saddles,” where he reportedly arrived drunk and forgot his lines.

Pickens’ health began to decline in the late 1970s, and he suffered a stroke in 1982. Despite his health issues, he continued to work in the entertainment industry, taking on smaller roles. His final film appearance was in the 1983 comedy “Brainstorm.”

Pickens passed away on December 8, 1983, at the age of 64, from a brain tumor. He was survived by his wife, Margaret, and two children.

Throughout his career, Pickens’ talent and versatility earned him the respect and admiration of audiences, critics, and fellow performers. His legacy as a beloved cowboy icon lives on through his memorable performances and contributions to the entertainment industry.

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