Cheech Marin

Born Richard Anthony 'Cheech' Marin on July 13, 1946, is an American comedian, actor, musician, and activist. Recognized for his role in the comedy act Cheech & Chong during the 1970s and early 1980s with Tommy Chong and his part as Don Johnson's partner, Insp. Joe Dominguez, on Nash Bridges. Apart from acting, he voiced characters in several Disney films such as Oliver & Company, The Lion King, The Lion King 1½, the Cars franchise, Coco, and Beverly Hills Chihuahua. His characters are known for their strong Chicano accents. Marin was born to Mexican parents in South Los Angeles, California. He got his nickname 'Cheech' from 'chicharrón', a popular snack in Latin American cuisine. Marin is an English major graduate of California State University, Northridge. His career has been not only prolific but diverse, moving smoothly from cult movies to mainstream Hollywood films, and from acting to directing. After Cheech & Chong disbanded in 1985, Marin appeared in numerous films and shows as a solo actor. He's also a frequent collaborator of the director Robert Rodriguez. Besides acting, Marin is an avid collector of Chicano art. In partnership with the city of Riverside, California, and the Riverside Art Museum, he set up The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture & Industry. Furthermore, he has been proactive in playing supporting roles in films and performing voice overs for animated features.