Quick Facts
Born:
1932-10-09
Birthplace:
Los Angeles, California, USA
Credits:
102 Total Roles
Gene LeBell
Acting
The MovieWise Take
Refining cinematic analysis...
Biography
Ivan Gene LeBell (October 9, 1932 – August 9, 2022) is an American martial artist, stunt performer, actor, and former professional wrestler. Nicknamed "the Godfather of Grappling", LeBell is widely credited with popularizing grappling in professional fighting circles, serving as a precursor to modern mixed martial arts. LeBell has also worked on over 1,000 films and TV shows and has authored 12 books.
In 2000, the United States Ju-Jitsu Federation (USJJF) promoted him to 9th Dan in jujitsu and taihojutsu. On August 7, 2004, the World Martial Arts Masters Association promoted LeBell to 10th Degree and in February 2005, he was promoted to 9th Dan in Traditional Judo by the USJJF.
LeBell served as an inspiration for the character of Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
In 2000, the United States Ju-Jitsu Federation (USJJF) promoted him to 9th Dan in jujitsu and taihojutsu. On August 7, 2004, the World Martial Arts Masters Association promoted LeBell to 10th Degree and in February 2005, he was promoted to 9th Dan in Traditional Judo by the USJJF.
LeBell served as an inspiration for the character of Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.
Known For
Spider-Man 2
Train Passenger (uncredited)
Men in Black II
Subway Passenger (uncredited)
Rush Hour
Taxi Driver
Batman & Robin
Arkham Asylum Property Room Guard
Airplane!
Religious Zealot (uncredited)
Raging Bull
Ring Announcer (Reeves Fight)
The X-Files
Bartender
Ed Wood
Ring Announcer
Full Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | The Search for Count Dante MOVIE | Self |
| 2019 | The Ronda Rousey Story: Through My Father's Eyes MOVIE | Self |
| 2018 | Fury of the Fist and the Golden Fleece MOVIE | The Boss |
| 2012 | I Am Bruce Lee MOVIE | Self |
| 2009 | From Mexico With Love MOVIE | Referee |
| 2008 | Redbelt MOVIE | Old Stuntman |
| 2007 | The Sarah Silverman Program. TV | Carl |
| 2006 | Bottoms Up MOVIE | Milt |
| 2004 | Cellular MOVIE | Driving Instructor (uncredited) |
| 2004 | Spider-Man 2 MOVIE | Train Passenger (uncredited) |