Len Lesser, a renowned American character actor, hailed from the Bronx, New York City, and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry with his versatility and remarkable performances.
Born to a Polish-Jewish immigrant father, who worked as a grocer in New York City, Lesser's early life was marked by a strong sense of family and community. He was educated at the City College of New York, where he graduated with a bachelor's degree at the tender age of 19 in 1942. Shortly after, Lesser enlisted in the United States Army, which was mobilizing for World War II, and served in the China Burma India Theater of the War.
Lesser's early career was marked by his work on stage, where he honed his craft as a theatrical actor until the mid-1950s. He then transitioned to television, appearing in various minor and guest star roles from 1955 onward. His filmography boasts a diverse range of movies, including "Birdman of Alcatraz" (1962),"How to Stuff a Wild Bikini" (1965),and "Kelly's Heroes" (1970).
However, it was his iconic role as Uncle Leo, the maternal uncle of Jerry Seinfeld, in the hit sitcom "Seinfeld" (1991-1998),that brought him widespread recognition and acclaim. His portrayal of Uncle Leo, a lovable and eccentric character, earned him a special place in the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Lesser's success on "Seinfeld" paved the way for his subsequent role as Garvin in the popular sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond" (1996-2005). Both Uncle Leo and Garvin were memorable characters, known for their friendly and overenthusiastic personalities.
Throughout his later years, Lesser struggled with cancer, but continued to work in the entertainment industry until his passing. He died of cancer-related pneumonia in 2011, at the age of 88. His former cast-mate Jerry Seinfeld fondly remembered Lesser as "a very sweet guy," a testament to the actor's kind and gentle nature.
