Lee, Canada

Leonard Lionel Cornelius Canegata whose stage name was Canada Lee, achieved success in diverse careers, but was best known as an actor of the stage and screen. Born in New York City in 1907, Lee began studying violin at age seven, and made his first concert appearance five years later. His varied career included stints as a jockey and prizefighter. In the 1920's he won the national amateur lightweight title, later becoming a leading contender for the welterweight championship. An eye injury ended his ring career in 1933, and he returned to music in the capacity of a bandleader.

In 1936 Lee first won critical acclaim in the W.P.A. Negro Federal Theater Unit's "Macbeth" followed by roles in "Haiti," "Mamba's Daughters," and "On Whitman Avenue" on Broadway. His 1941 performance in Richard Wright's "Native Son" brought him great success. Other theatrical productions featuring Lee include "Set My People Free," "The Dutchess of Malfi," "Othello" and "Anna Lucasta." His film credits include "Cry, the Beloved Country," Alfred Hitchcock's "Lifeboat" and "Lost Boundaries." In addition to his many theatrical and film performances, Lee narrated a radio series, "New World A-Comin'.".

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