Who Is Cheech Marin?
Cheech Marin, renowned as one half of the iconic stoner comedy duo Cheech and Chong, has carved a multifaceted career as a comedian, actor, and director. His influence extends far beyond his early days of marijuana-themed humor, making significant contributions to television, film, and the arts.
Early Life
Richard Anthony Marin, known universally as Cheech Marin, was born on July 13, 1946, in South Central Los Angeles, California. His father, Oscar, was a police officer, and his mother, Elsa, worked as a secretary. His nickname “Cheech” was coined by an uncle who likened the newborn to a chicharron, a deep-fried pigskin. Growing up in Granada Hills, Marin was known for his comedic talent and his involvement in music bands with friends. He attended California State University, Northridge, majoring in English literature but left just short of completing his degree to move to Vancouver, Canada, and avoid the Vietnam draft.
Cheech and Chong: A Legendary Duo
Marin’s life took a pivotal turn when he met Tommy Chong in Canada. Chong, a musician managing an improv comedy group at his family’s strip bar, and Marin quickly formed a bond. Initially performing music, the duo soon transitioned to stand-up comedy, creating the “Cheech and Chong” act that resonated deeply with the counter-culture movement of the late 1960s. Their humor, filled with ethnic stereotypes and stoner antics, struck a chord with audiences.
In 1970, the pair moved to Los Angeles and caught the attention of record producer Lou Adler. Their debut album, “Cheech and Chong” (1971), was a success, followed by “Big Bambu” in 1972, which became the best-selling comedy album of its time. “Los Cochinos” in 1973 earned them a Grammy Award, solidifying their status as comedy legends.
“Up in Smoke” and Beyond
The duo’s transition to film with “Up in Smoke” in 1978 was a massive success. Directed and produced by Adler on a shoestring budget, the film grossed over $100 million and cemented Cheech and Chong as cultural icons. They continued to create sequels and comedy albums, but by 1985, they decided to part ways after releasing “Get Out of My Room.”
Cheech Marin’s Solo Career
In 1987, Marin wrote and directed “Born in East L.A.,” a comedy about a Mexican-American mistakenly deported. He lent his voice to Tito the Chihuahua in Disney’s “Oliver and Company” (1988) and gradually found more substantial roles. His voice acting as Banzai the hyena in Disney’s “The Lion King” (1994) marked the beginning of a successful second act.
Marin gained significant recognition in the mid-1990s with roles in Robert Rodriguez’s films “Desperado” (1995) and “From Dusk Till Dawn” (1996). He also starred as Inspector Joe Dominguez in the TV crime drama “Nash Bridges” from 1996 to 2001. His collaboration with Rodriguez continued in the “Spy Kids” series and “Once Upon a Time in Mexico” (2003). Marin’s voice work also included roles in “Cars” (2006) and “Beverly Hills Chihuahua” (2008).
Reunion and Continued Success
In 2008, Cheech and Chong reunited for the “Light Up America” tour, rekindling their stoner humor for new and old fans alike. They followed this with the “Get It Legal” tour, proving their comedic relevance persisted long after their heyday.
Personal Life and Artistic Pursuits
Marin’s passion for art led him to amass the largest private collection of Chicano art globally. He organized the “Chicano Visions: American Painters on the Verge” exhibition, which toured major U.S. cities from 2001 to 2007, bringing attention to underrepresented artists. Marin serves on the boards of the Smithsonian Latino Center and the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, reflecting his dedication to cultural and community advocacy.
When not immersed in creative or humanitarian efforts, Marin enjoys golfing. He married his third wife, Natasha, in August 2009, and has three children from previous marriages.
Quick Facts
- Name: Cheech Marin
- Birth Year: 1946
- Birth Date: July 13, 1946
- Birth State: California
- Birth City: Los Angeles
- Birth Country: United States
- Gender: Male
- Best Known For: Half of the famed stoner duo Cheech and Chong, Cheech Marin is an accomplished comedian, actor, and director.
- Industries: Film
- Astrological Sign: Cancer
- Schools: California State University, Northridge