Tom Laughlin (actor)

Tom Laughlin (born August 10, 1931) is an American actor and director. He was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Laughlin is best known for his series of "Billy Jack" movies.

Related Topics:
August 10 - 1931 - American - Minneapolis, Minnesota - Milwaukee, Wisconsin

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Before coming into the public consciousness, Laughlin had appeared in a few films such as These Wilder Years, Tea and Sympathy and South Pacific. In 1967 he wrote (as E. James Lloyd), directed (as T. C. Frank) and starred in The Born Losers, the first film in which the character of Billy Jack appeared. He followed this up with the sequel, Billy Jack, which was very successful, and The Trial of Billy Jack, which was also successful. But the 1977 version of the franchise, Billy Jack Goes to Washington, was a failure, and proved to be Laughlin's last film as a director; however, he is preparing to mount a fifth film, Billy Jack's Crusade to End the Iraq War and Restore America to Its Moral Purpose for a late 2005 release.

Related Topics:
These Wilder Years - Tea and Sympathy - South Pacific - 1967 - The Born Losers - Billy Jack - The Trial of Billy Jack - 1977 - Billy Jack Goes to Washington - 2005

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Laughlin has acted in such more recent movies as The Big Sleep and The Legend of the Lone Ranger.

Related Topics:
The Big Sleep - The Legend of the Lone Ranger

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In recent years, Laughlin has turned his eye to politics, an arena that has always interested him. In 1992 he sought the Democratic Party nomination for President, and appeared on the primary ballots in New Hampshire and several other states. Despite being excluded from debates by party officials who did not consider him a serious candidate, he received 2% of the vote in the New Hampshire primary. He has announced his desire to run again for President, and for Governor of California.

Related Topics:
Democratic Party - President - New Hampshire - Governor of California

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