Movies - TV
The Only Surviving Stars Of 1974's Blazing Saddles
By BEN PEARSON
"Blazing Saddles" came out 50 years ago, which sadly means that most of the starring actors are no longer with us. Only two are still around today: Mel Brooks and Burton Gilliam.
Brooks himself is still alive at age 98. In addition to co-writing and directing "Blazing Saddles," Brooks played multiple roles, most prominently Governor William J. Le Petomane.
Brooks is one of the most celebrated comedians in Hollywood history. His career has spanned more than 70 years and is still going; his acting credits go all the way up to 2023.
Burton Gilliam is the only other actor from "Blazing Saddles" who's still with us. In only his second movie role, he played Lyle, a minion of Slim Pickens' character, Taggart.
Gilliam went on to act in nearly 100 films and shows, including "Fletch" and "Back to the Future Part III," before traveling the U.S. introducing screenings of "Blazing Saddles."