Woody Strode

by Sam Franklin | Published March 31, 1995

Most people, especially those under 30, will blink and say "Who?" at the mention of the man's name. Remind them of the most famous gladiatorial combat ever filmed and, even if they haven't seen Spartacus, they know the scene. They will nod, impressed, and say, "Oh, yeah. That guy."

Woodrow Wilson Woolwine Strode was born in Los Angeles in 1914. Though conscious of his Native American heritage (one quarter Blackfoot, one eighth each Cherokee and Creek -a "Negro-Indian breed", to use his words), Strode knew that in the eyes of white audiences he would always be "a colored boy." Nevertheless, his striking physiognomy, high-planed cheekbones and droop-lidded eyes, worked to his advantage in Hollywood. As Strode put it, "because of my nixed background I could play anyone from the third world," and he did (a Comanche in Two Rode Together, an Apache in Shalako, a Chinese in 7 Women and a Mongol in Genghis Khan).

In viewing many of Strode's films one feels a pang of loss all too often. His was the part of the stalwart sidekick or imposing secondary villain. He undoubtedly could have been, at the very least, a lead character actor (picture him in any of Boris Karloffs roles - Frankenstein's monster!), if not a genuine action hero. Watching him in his early roles, you get the feeling a young Woody Strode could have unceremoniously knocked Wesley Snipes, Patrick Swayze, Steven Seagal and company on their collective ass.

Strode's autobiography, "Gold Dust" (Madison, 1990), is nearly 75% finished before its author gets around to discussing his life in the film industry. No surprise. His highly distinguished career began as a track-and-field and football star at UCLA, where he competed against the likes of Jackie Robinson and Jesse Owens. Leni Riefenstahl called his "the greatest physique of any athlete I have ever seen." On the audio commentary on if the Criterion laserdisc edition of Spartacus, Peter Ustinov describes him as "frightfully athletic," and notes that Strode was cast as the gladiator in part because he could actually hurl the trident  in the film's climactic fight scene.

It was through his stint on the professional wrestling circuit that Strode was first noticed and offered film parts. His first real break came in 1956 as the King of Ethiopia in DeMille's remake of The Ten Commandments. Interestingly, Strode was originally cast and has substantially more screen time as one of Nina Foch's palanquin-bearers, a part for which he receives no on-screen credit.

In Lewis Milestone's Korean war film, Pork Chop Hill (1959), Strode got his first chance to shine in a meaty supporting role. The viewer's initial impression of Strode's Private Franklin is that of a coward; this verges on unbelievability, given Strode's obvious virility and stature. But Strode was a good enough actor to overcome the limitations of his outward appearance.

During the course of the battle, it becomes apparent that Private Franklin is asking himself the timeless question asked by all soldiers: is this foreign soil worth dying for? Private Franklin's commanding officer, played by Gregory Peck, shares these doubts, as it turns out. However, the question acquires considerably more weight coming from Strode's character, who significantly points out that he wouldn't fight and die for what he has at home either.

Strode's most significant actordirector collaboration was with John Ford, with whom he made four films and whose close friend he remained until the director's death in 1973. The best of these was their first picture together, Sergeant Rutledge (1960). The film's timeliness with regard to the Civil Rights movement is striking: in the title role, Strode plays a black soldier on trial for the murder of a white man and his daughter. Though he only received fifth billing (?!), Strode was unquestionably the lead. His performance is real, electric. (He would later refer to this scene as "the most emotional moment in my acting career.")

He would only play one other lead role in his life, in Seated at His Right, Italy's Cannes entry for 1968. In the early seventies, during the height of the blaxploitation trend, the film was finally released in this country under the evocative title Black Jesus (it is currently unavailable on home video).

Strode was a star in Italy, where he lived between 1969 and 1973. Though well into middle-age in films like Once Upon a Time in the West (1968) and The Deserter (1971), Strode still looks extraordinarily vital, fitter than most men half his age. Even in his later films, like Vigilante (1982) and Jungle Warriors (1984), the 70 year-old Strode looks like he could believably and seriously kick your ass. Only toward the end, in Storyville (1992) and Posse (1993), does he appear sufficiently aged to play old men. His final film, Sam Raimi's The Quick and the Dead, opened in February.

Strode's attitude toward his craft was characteristically modest: "I was strictly a mechanic. They told me what to do; I did it, took the money and got out of there."

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COMMENTS | POST A COMMENT

Comment by mbo on 11/01/07 at 3:36 pm

would have like to have been able to see he and
steven seagal together

Comment by James Lavender on 2/15/08 at 12:09 am

Woody Strode was married to my Cousin Tina, He was one of my heroes as a kid. I can remeber him in Spatacus and The Ten Commandments. I felt his emotions we he potrayed Sargeant Rutledge. It was great going up to visit he and Tina in Glendora, I alway received a great history lesson, I sat and listened to the stories he told of his life and that of his friends for hours. he gave me a copy of his book Gold Dust and autographed it for me, I have known alot of professional athletes and actor and I was never compelled to ask any of them for their autographed, his was an honor to have. I remember the day of his funeral I had the opportunity to speak to Bill Cosby, I mentioned that Woody was being laid to rest that day and he said, “ That’s why it’s a rainy Day”. Woody was a Great man and I miss him even to this day.

Comment by rob gardner on 4/14/08 at 2:25 pm

Woody Strode...what a great actor.  There will always only be one “Pompey”.

Comment by Samuel A. Foster, Jr. on 4/28/08 at 2:38 pm

Woody was a magnificent presence on the silver screen. I was surprized to learn of the many many films in which he acted. “Spatacus” and “Sergeant Rutledge” are my favorites. The fact that he was one of the first Black athletes to play in the modern era {late 1940’s) professional football makes him unigue for his time.
Along with the Great Paul Robeson, who was a football All-American, professional footballer, film and stage actor and vocalist extrodinair, Woody Strode made a his mark in American History.

Comment by Cpt Kirk on 6/21/08 at 11:44 pm

Im watching The Professionals on AMC at this moment. I recall it from the mid 60’s genre of mercenarycum Dirty Dozen cum Special Forces movies...a few good men, a few specialists. like Woddy Stode, expert with knife, rope, and bow & arrow....
This film and its soundtrack remain a true Western classic IMO

Woody, a major star by this time in 1966, stands tall as an icon

which is what he was in life....

rest easy brother,

Cpt Kirk the Gar Hunter

Comment by Tudor Electric Ftooball on 7/15/08 at 6:17 am

Woody was a strong character indeed. He stood tall int he face of adversity and will leave behind a legion of fans..!

Comment by ram on 8/01/08 at 8:54 am

I mentioned that Woody was being laid to rest that day and he said, “ That’s why it’s a rainy Day”. Woody was a Great man and I miss him even to this day.

Comment by James Lavender on 8/01/08 at 6:37 pm

Hey Ram who are you and why are you stealing my comments?

Comment by karla reid on 12/07/08 at 5:23 pm

I love the movie Sgt. Rutledge and have always admired him.My 13yr old son happened to watch the movie with me and asked me if the actor Lance Reddick was related to Woody Strode.They look alike and their presence on screen over shadows everybody. Wish Woody was around now.Nobody can walk in his shoes.

Comment by Daniel Lonsdale on 1/01/09 at 8:24 pm

I remember watching that famous scene in ‘Spartacus’ where Woody Strode’s gladiator persona fights Kirk ‘Spartacus’ Douglas. I was sure Sparty was dead meat. I couldn’t imagine anybody winning in a fight with that huge black dude with the incredible muscles. If we had been a less racist society in those days Strode would have been a super-star. At least he did have a long film career and is remembered well by millions of people who viewed his work.

Comment by Kalai Strode on 2/22/09 at 4:22 am

Woody Strode was my father. I value him more and more each day. He was sincere, honest, and optimistic. He was a good role model, not to me only, not to all African Americans only either, but to all Americans. He overcame more obstacles then we could imagine, and did it with grace and integrity. He integrated the National Football League with Kenny Washington, and portrayed roles of dignity throughout his film career. I wish he could have lived long enough to see an African American elected as President of the United States. I believe his legacy laid a foundation for that, and for all other minorities who have tried to crack the glass ceiling of racial discrimation. He was a very good man.

Comment by hotel on 3/09/09 at 2:50 pm

I like their hats.

Comment by David Bibby on 4/09/09 at 8:45 am

He was amazing the FIRST great black actor

Comment by Ralph Charles Whitley, Sr. A Decorated American Ve on 9/03/09 at 10:11 pm

I had the great pleasure of knowing Woody Strode and his family in Rome when they and I lived plus worked in Rome. My friends loss was great years after we moved back to America. Kalai Stode and his family will remember Woody living beside the Albergo Flora and meeting so many people on the sidewalk cafe. I miss Woody and the long honest talks too Kalai and he will leave a light ON for us ! 090309

Comment by lonzo Clancy on 12/19/09 at 1:54 am

I first saw woody strode ...who i am guessing was named after the 28th President of these United States what impossing figure… beautiful black man… his physical present just took over the picture ... he could have easely been a big star if all thing were fair in those days but he made the best of what he was dealt… what made me think of woody strode...” to me he was the epitome of what i imagine a buffalo soldier to look like”.... the strong silent type” .... i saw a black actor that reminded me of him only looks.... if you every saw the Series “the Wire” the captain on the police force in Baltimore.... if you check it out let me know what you think.... to Woody Strode ... rest easy brother ....and thanks for give me pride ... i am a retire Police officer ... and woody gave me the pride to do it… in a round about way..... thanks…

Comment by Kalai Strode on 12/19/09 at 11:35 am

The actor Lonzo mentioned is Lance Reddick. I saw him on the LOST set here in Hawaii and told him how much he reminded me of my father, Woody Strode. He was very appreciative of the comment, and Lance is today one of our strongest character actors. He also has a great presence on film and I hope we see much more of him in the future.

Comment by B. R. Freman on 1/14/10 at 8:57 pm

Woody Strode was my American Idol! I see myself as a Woody Strode each day I go to work and find myself as the only African American in my profession for the last 20yrs. (Law Enforcement)in the town I live. I summon his strength each day in order to set an example for those who may follow me. Thank Mr. Strode, I will never forget! God Bless You!

Comment by K. Howard on 2/09/10 at 1:24 am

Woody Strode,
What a guy!

His auto biography on 3/4” master video cassette and his original manuscript is up for auction on e-bay #230433770009 for a limited time.....

Comment by T. Pforsich on 5/30/10 at 1:48 am

For years I’ve been looking up info on Mr. Strode.  My dad loved movies and Woody Strode was admired by my dad.  I thought he was such a good actor and I also admired him for what he achieved, being an african american guy in a white society.  He just seemed like a great guy.  I know that sounds a little dumb from someone who didn’t know him, but all that you have written has been great to hear and learning that he was a guy who went to UCLA and played football and was a decathlete made him seem even more accomplished.  So thank you all for the info.  I’m glad my dad made a big deal out of him growing up.

Comment by Billie Jo Walsh on 7/12/10 at 10:49 am

Woody Strode was and still is one of my favorite actors.  It’s unfortunate that he didn’t get to “star” in more films.  Sergeant Rutledge is my all time favorite, with The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance coming in second.  I would have loved to have seen more about the private man and his family while he was acting--he was magnificent looking and I always wondered what his lineage was, especially with his sculpted facial features.  He was truly magnificent and will always be missed by those of us who love good movies and actors.

Comment by James Lavender on 7/12/10 at 11:40 am

Billie Jo,
I have a copy of Woody’s autobiography Goal Dust that he signed for me, I would not mind sharing some exerpts with you if you want to contact me at . He was a great man and even greater mentor.

Comment by Ralph C. Whitley, Sr. A Decorated American Veteran on 7/12/10 at 11:40 am

Woody Strode will be missed by ALL who knew or saw him. I lived in Rome when he was living near the Albergo Flora and Via Veneto near Harry’s Bar.  I miss our talks with Woody and his wife plus our visits sitting outside a coffee shop where more actors visited him than anyone perhaps in Rome.  Woody is waiting for me to sit up a Coffee at Harry’s Bar in his honor.  Maybe next year Woody.

Comment by Felix Delgado on 7/20/10 at 1:52 pm

I first saw Woody Strode in, “Sergeant Rutledge,” as far as I’m concerend he desereved an award.  What an actor!

Comment by Hall of Legends Museum on 7/30/10 at 6:26 pm

working on getting WOODY a star on the hHollywood walk of fame contact us if u agree and will help in this fight

Comment by K. Howard on 8/01/10 at 5:18 pm

Yes, A star would be great!

Comment by Cheryl Jamison Gospel/R&B;Singer on 8/05/10 at 4:50 pm

I just saw Woody Stode act in the movie, “The Rebel” with Joe Namath in 1971. I have seen him play in a lot of other older movies. He was a genuis and a great great actor. Very tall and handsome man of color. He’s my western hero. There will never be another Woody in the movie scenes. No one can compare to his acting skills. He is a legend. God Bless his soul. Woody you are missed.

Comment by D Hazel on 8/05/10 at 9:22 pm

Just finished watching Sgt Rutledge and wanted to know more about Woody.  I remember his face in several movies but didn’t know his name.  Now I have a better appreciation of the man in a difficult time of our country’s history.  Loved to see him in any role.... and as a child, innately drawn to the character.

Comment by carolyn branch on 8/05/10 at 10:16 pm

I also just finished watching Sgt.Rutledge, and absolutely fell in love with Woody Strode. I would choose him as my 4th husband if he would have me as his 3rd wife. I plan to look him up when I get to heaven. I have never even heard his name before seeing his movie. he was, and still is, a fine brother, whom I hope to one day meet. (on the other side) (smile)

Comment by Jim Corbett on 11/07/10 at 12:39 am

In June 1955, I was in the Marines stationed at camp Pendleton with the stepson of Woody’s.  His name is Leroy Wood, the Hawiian son of Luanas’.  I was priviliged to be invited to Paramont studios to see Woody on the set of the Ten Commandments.  After the days shooting, I was a guest for dinner at their home.  I remember meeting Luana, and the two children, Kalai and June.  They were just little ones then.  Luana made us a dinner of spagetti and meatballs.  I can remember riding in the rumble seat of Woody’s coupe.  Leroy and I returned to Camp Pendleton and I was discharged the next week and I never saw Leroy Wood again.  I did see every movie that Woody Strode was in and also loved his book.  What ever happened to Leroy Wood?  I am 76 years old, live in Chicago, Il. and still a big fan of Woody Strode.

Comment by Kalai on 11/07/10 at 4:45 am

To Jim Corbett: Leroy Woodd moved to Hawaii in 1969 and passed away in 2002. His ashes are at Punchbowl National Veterans cemetery.

Comment by Jack L. Berry on 1/08/11 at 12:43 pm

SIDEKICK? IF THIS MAN WAS YOUR SIDEKICK, YOU HAD TO BE SOMETHING ELSE.I WAS’NT AWARE OF MR.STRODE COLLEGIATE STARS, BUT THAT’S NOT SURPRISING, CONSIDERING THAT TODAYS GENERATION ONLY SEE HIM AS AN ACTOR IN SPAGETTI WESTERNS.WHAT A SHAME, SO, LAST OF THE SIDEKICKS, I ONLY WISH I HADA SIDEKICK OF HIS STATUER.

Comment by Dean B on 3/22/11 at 7:11 pm

I met Fess Parker prior to his death and was so impressed by the man that I have been watching Daniel Boone reruns. Woody made such an impression in the 1966 “Goliath” title show of Daniel Boone that I researched him. Only then did I realize how many characters Woody had played so well. I am now a fan and the comments from those that actually knew him confirm he was a fine human being as well as actor.

Comment by Graphic Web Design Perth on 4/09/11 at 3:10 am

I am pleased to have such great information,please keep on sharing.

Comment by Linda on 4/09/11 at 7:23 pm

What a privilege to read the comments written here. I watched The Professionals for the first time recently and was quickly drawn to Woody Strode’s acting ability.  I will now go back and watch Spartacus again.  From the comments, it is obvious that there was a humanity to Mr. Strode that made him not only a fine actor--but a fine human being, too.  What a great combination!  That is quite rare--more so today.  Thanks for the sharing of all the memories.  From my perspective, I want to read more about this man.

Comment by Waylon J on 8/07/11 at 8:52 pm

I have always admired Mr. Woddy Strode!. He acted in the best episode of Rawhide Season 3 in 1961. He was the centre of the show and controlled the whole episode right to the end. I only wished he would have take more lead acting roles because he was simply great!. Also, he had the most stylish walk other than Yul Brynner.

Comment by Ben on 8/14/11 at 5:29 pm

It must have been very upsetting for all the ‘stars’ who shared the screen with him to find that he had unintentionally stolen the screen in every scene he played. If the audience didn’t already know his name, they read the credits to find out who he was. I would like to know if his book could be republished in an e-book format and where I could purchase it.

Comment by Waylon J. on 8/14/11 at 8:18 pm

Mr. Woody was such an attractive and rugged man. He stylish walk can only be compared to Yul Brynner in King Of The Sun and Robert Mitchum in Blood On The Moon. His walk is one of the glories of cinema. I would love to watch any movie of nothing but Woody Strode walking.

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