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Photo courtesy of Billy Mitchell
Comedian/actor Scoey Mitchlll dies
By Pasadena Weekly Staff
Roscoe Mitchell Jr., whose stage name was Scoey Mitchlll, died March 19 after a colorful career during the ’70s and ’80s.
The comedian/actor, writer and TV director appeared on “Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour,” the “Ed Sullivan Show,” “The Joey Bishop Show” and 1970s game shows, including “Match Game,” “Tattletales,” “Hollywood Squares,” and had a recurring role on “Rhoda.”
In 1970, he starred in the short-lived series “Barefoot in the Park” (based on the Neil Simon play). It was the first American TV sitcom since “Amos ’n’ Andy” to have a predominantly Black cast.
During its first few episodes, “Barefoot in the Park” developed behind-the-scenes strife that sealed its fate: Mitchlll was fired due to “differences of opinion” with the series’ producers.
The “differences” were rooted in Michlll’s attempt to get more Blacks in jobs behind the camera and as script writers.
Mitchlll guest-starred in many television series, including “The Odd Couple,” “Six Million Dollar Man,” “Baretta” and “Cops.”
In the ’80s he turned to directing, writing and producing made-for-TV movies “Me and Mrs. C” and “13 East.”
The ’90s marked his retirement from the business, and he directed his time and energy to the collection and refurbishment of classical automobiles. He is survived by his sister, Mary Warren, and brother, jazz pianist Billy Mitchell of Pasadena.
Upcoming Events
Have an event for the calendar? Send it to christina@timespublications.com Family Nature Walk SATURDAYS IN MARCH
Enjoy a guided nature walk every Saturday in March with La Jaja Kids at Eaton Canyon Natural Area. Recommended for all ages and families.
Eaton Canyon Nature Center, 1750 N. Altadena Drive, Pasadena, 9 to 11 a.m., free, lajajakids.com
“Ann” with Holland Taylor TO APRIL 24
Written and performed by Emmy Award-winner Holland Taylor, “Ann” pays tribute to Texas Gov. Ann Richards. After successful runs on Broadway and across Texas and Washington, D.C., Holland brings the Tony-nominated performance to Pasadena.
Pasadena Playhouse, 39 S. El Molina Avenue, Pasadena, see website
for ticket prices, various times, pasadenaplayhouse.org
Butterfly Season at Kidspace Children’s Museum TO MAY 31
Start a new spring tradition with the family by adopting painted lady caterpillars from Kidspace Children’s Museum. Take care of the caterpillars for a few weeks to watch them metamorphosize into butterflies.
