Hometown Star: Freeman King's Journey from Pelahatchie to Hollywood

Freeman King, born June 1, 1943, in Pelahatchie, Mississippi, earned recognition across the country as a comedian, actor, and writer. Raised on a farm outside Pelahatchie, he moved to California in the early 1960s, graduating from Compton High School in 1962 before pursuing drama studies at Los Angeles City College.

King first captured audiences with stand-up comedy in L.A., performing at venues frequented by notable comedians. It was during one of these sets that Redd Foxx suggested he collaborate with Murray Langston, leading to King becoming a regular performer on The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour from 1971 to 1974. His appearances on that popular television series showcased his observational humor and savvy character work, cementing his standing in comedy.

Over the years, King transitioned seamlessly between film and television roles, appearing in Fletch, The Buddy Holly Story, Lionheart, and Under the Rainbow, among others. On television, viewers could spot him in programs from Moonlighting to Hill Street Blues and Starsky & Hutch, often lending his expressive comic timing to small but memorable parts.  He also worked in writing, contributing to the scripting of To Protect and Serve in 1992.

Despite his success in entertainment, King never forgot his roots in Pelahatchie. His hometown remained proud of the native son who carried Pelahatchie’s name across stages and screens. Today, local historians often recall him as one of Pelahatchie’s most notable figures, alongside others such as Rubin Lacy and Bruiser Kinard.

Freeman King passed away on his 59th birthday, June 1, 2002, in Los Angeles, due to a heart attack. His death marked the end of a versatile career spanning stand-up, television, film, and writing. He left behind a legacy characterized by humor, creativity, and the ability to break boundaries as a performer of Southern roots who found success in Hollywood.

His journey from a farm near Pelahatchie to national television screens remains a testament to talent meeting opportunity. Freeman King is remembered not just as a comedian from Mississippi but as an entertainer whose work reflected sharp cultural observations and enduring wit.