Ralph Cooper
Ralph Cooper | |
|---|---|
Woodlawn Cemetery, Bronx, New York | |
| Nationality | American |
| Other names |
|
| Education | New York University (attended) |
| Occupations |
|
| Years active | 1927–1992 |
| Known for | Founder of the Apollo Theater's Amateur Night (1935) |
| Spouse |
Elizabeth (Betti Mays) Cooper
(m. 1945) |
| Children | 2 |
Ralph Cooper (January 16, 1908 – August 4, 1992), was an American
Gangsters on the Loose and Gang War. Because of his debonair good looks, he was known as "dark Gable" in the 1930s.[1][2]
Biography
Cooper was born on January 16, 1908, in
race films that he often starred in, wrote, produced and directed.[5] Tino Balio has written that: "Million Dollar, more than any other company, moved black filmmaking away from a marginalized form towards the mainstream, advancing considerably its reputation and ability to attract audiences."[6]
Later life and death
The Apollo closed in the mid–1970s, but the contest was restarted in 1985 after the renovations were completed. Cooper was again the
Woodlawn Cemetery in The Bronx, New York City.[citation needed
]
References
- ^ Strange, Mike (6 September 2016). "Exclusive Interview with Producer and Apollo Theatre Icon Ralph Cooper". The Elegant Classy Gentlemen.
- ^ a b "Ralph Cooper, Who Found Stars At Apollo's Amateur Nights, Dies". The New York Times. August 6, 1992. Retrieved 2008-07-29.
Ralph Cooper, the originator and master of ceremonies of Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, died on Tuesday at his home in Harlem. His age was not known, but his associates at the theater said they believed that he was in his mid to late 80's. He died of cancer, said Percy Sutton, a friend and business associate.
- ^ Social Security Death Index
- ISBN 9780826412676.
- ^ Watkins, Mel (1999). On the Real Side: A History of African American Comedy from Slavery to Chris Rock. Chicago Review Press.
- ISBN 9780520203341.
External links
- Ralph Cooper at IMDb
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