"He’s part Cherokee, part Blackfoot, a real American," Ford said."

Subdeacon Joe · January 14

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In 1962, John Ford, one of Hollywood's most iconic directors, made a startling admission that turned the usual narrative on its head. Ford, whose name is synonymous with epic westerns and unforgettable cinema, was often associated with the legendary John Wayne. Yet, in a candid moment, Ford revealed a surprising truth: it was not Wayne who was his favorite actor, but Woody Strode.

“Hell, people think John Wayne is my favorite actor, but, in fact, it’s Woody Strode. Woody’s the real deal: a decathlete, a pro football player, and a wrestler. He’s part Cherokee, part Blackfoot, a real American," Ford said.

This statement, coming from one of the most revered directors of his time, speaks volumes. It shines a light on an unsung hero whose life was as extraordinary as the roles he played on screen.

Woody Strode was not your typical actor. Born in Los Angeles in 1914, his athletic prowess was evident long before he graced the silver screen. Strode was a formidable decathlete, a professional football player, and even a wrestler. He was the first Black football player for the Los Angeles Rams in 1946, breaking barriers in a sport that was often closed to people of his race. But it wasn’t just his athleticism that set him apart; it was his resilience and the complexity of his identity. Strode, who was part Cherokee and part Blackfoot, carried with him a deep connection to his heritage.

In Hollywood, however, Strode faced the harsh realities of racial prejudice. At a time when roles for Black actors were often limited to stereotypes, Strode’s talents and his striking presence forced filmmakers to look beyond the usual portrayals. He became known for his strength, dignity, and quiet intensity, traits that made him stand out even in small roles. Though Strode’s film career would never match the level of fame achieved by stars like John Wayne, his contributions were undeniable. He was a trailblazer, opening doors for future Black actors, including Harry Belafonte and Sidney Poitier, who would come to define a new era of cinematic storytelling.

Strode's rugged features, towering presence, and effortless charisma allowed him to play roles that were far more nuanced than the typical hero or villain. Perhaps his most memorable performance came in Ford's *The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance*, where he played the stoic and silent character of Pompey, a man of strength and honor who defied the prejudices of his time.

Despite the industry’s limitations, Strode never settled for anything less than respect. His influence quietly reverberated through Hollywood’s evolving landscape, carving a path for future generations of actors to follow.

Woody Strode may have never achieved the fame of some of his contemporaries, but in John Ford's eyes, he was the "real deal." And sometimes, that’s all that matters.