Trivia

African-American character actor who typified Hollywood's racist treatment--and views--of blacks in the 1930s as an easily frightened, wide-eyed, menial type. His career declined as the image of the black male became more respectful in an increasingly race-conscious age. Appeared in several films of legendary director John Ford. In between acting jobs, Washington was an officer in the Los Angeles Police Department.

The nickname "Blue" came from Frank Capra, one of his best pals in the ethnically diverse surroundings of Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles.

He died at Mira Loma Hospital in Lancaster (CA). He was laid to rest at Evergreen Memorial Park in Los Angeles. His son was buried beside him in 1971.

He had a son, Kenny Washington, with his wife, Marion.

Was injured on the set of The Plainsman (1936) when a team of horses pulling a stagecoach suddenly bolted and knocked him and two other extras down.

Co-starred with John Wayne in "Haunted Gold" in 1932.

Son of Susie Washington.

Grandfather of Kenny Washington, Jr.