Carl Wright of ‘Barbershop’ movies dies

updated 8:03 p.m. ET May 20, 2007

CHICAGO - Actor Carl Wright, who began his career as a tap dancer and comedian and later appeared in movies including “Barbershop” and “Big Momma’s House,” has died, his family confirmed Sunday. He was 75.

Wright died of cancer at his home Saturday in Chicago, according to his daughter, Kia Wright.

Wright’s film credits also include “Soul Food,” “Barbershop 2: Back in Business” and “The Cookout.”

Born in Orlando, Fla., Wright traveled the world as a young man working as a tap dancer, and he once danced with a one-legged partner as a team called the Three-Leggers, his daughter said. He also worked as a comedian, emcee and songwriter.

His movie career began late in his life, his daughter said.

“He’s done so many things,” she said. “He worked with everyone from Elvis Presley to Frank Sinatra.”

Wright is survived by his wife, Shirley, two other daughters and a granddaughter.

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