Damien Leake is a man of many talents. Born in the Bronx, New York, on August 12, 1952, he’s made a name for himself as an actor, athlete, and activist. But did you know he’s also the fastest man over 70 who has ever lived? Let’s dive into the fascinating life of this multi-talented individual.
Early Life and Education
Damien Leake grew up in a multi-generational household in the Bronx. His childhood was filled with rich experiences that shaped his future. His father, an army veteran, would read Shakespeare to Leake’s great-grandfather, who was born a slave and couldn’t read.
As a young boy, Leake was encouraged to audition for New York’s prestigious High School of Performing Arts. He recited a speech from Shakespeare’s Mark Antony and was accepted. This early exposure to the arts set the stage for his future acting career.
But it wasn’t just the arts that caught Leake’s attention. He was also deeply affected by the civil rights movement of the 1960s. At just 11 years old, he attended the March on Washington with his parents, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech.
Acting Career
Leake’s acting career kicked off while he was still in high school. He landed his first acting job as a senior and has been working in the industry ever since, with a brief break for a stint in the Army.
Over the years, Leake has appeared in more than 70 films. Some of his notable movie roles include:
- “Serpico” (1973)
- “Death Wish” (1974)
- “Apocalypse Now” (1979)
- “The Great Debaters” (2007)
On television, Leake has been equally busy. He’s appeared in popular shows like:
- “NCIS” • “SWAT”
- “Ghost Whisperer”
- “Tyler Perry’s Assisted Living”
But Leake’s talents aren’t limited to the screen. He’s also made a name for himself in theater, appearing on, off, and off-off Broadway. His stage roles have ranged from contemporary dramas to Shakespearean classics.
Athletic Achievements
While Leake’s acting career is impressive, his athletic achievements are equally remarkable. He’s a world-class masters track and field athlete, setting age-group world records in the 50, 60, 100, and 200 meter dashes.
In 2018, at the age of 65, Leake set a world record in the 100 meters, clocking in at 12.31 seconds. But he didn’t stop there. In 2023, at the age of 70, he broke two more world records:
| Event | Time | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| 60-meter dash | 7.89 seconds | USATF Indoor Masters Championships |
| 100-meter dash | 12.59 seconds | LA Grand Prix |
These achievements have earned him the title of the fastest man over 70 who has ever lived.
Civil Rights Activism
Leake’s commitment to civil rights started early and has remained a constant throughout his life. The assassinations of Medgar Evers and Malcolm X deeply affected him as a teenager.
When Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in 1968, Leake made a decision that would become a lifelong form of protest. He chose to remain seated during the U.S. national anthem, a silent protest he’s continued for over five decades.
This act of protest almost led to a court-martial when Leake was in the Army, stationed at Fort Dix. Years later, when Colin Kaepernick’s similar protest caught media attention, Leake had already been quietly protesting for nearly 50 years.
Coaching and Mentoring
Leake’s passion for athletics extends beyond his own achievements. He’s dedicated himself to coaching and mentoring young athletes. His team, known as Leake’s Leapers, focuses on long jumping.
But Leake’s coaching goes beyond just teaching athletic skills. He uses his position to teach life lessons, helping his young athletes succeed both on and off the track. As he puts it, “Give me a 10-year old who suddenly gets that look on his face of, ‘That was great.’ And that smile. Oh, baby. I melt. It’s changed me, totally.”
Personal Life
Despite his many public achievements, Leake keeps much of his personal life private. We do know that he was a cousin of NFL defensive tackle Roger Brown. This family connection to professional sports may have influenced Leake’s own athletic pursuits.
Versatile Talents
Leake’s talents extend far beyond acting and athletics. He’s a true renaissance man, with skills in various areas of the entertainment industry. Some of his many talents include:
- Singer
- Dancer
- Director
- Musician
- Composer
- Musical director
- Vocal arranger
- Playwright
- Stage fight choreographer
- Ventriloquist
This versatility has allowed Leake to work in various capacities throughout his career. He’s not just an actor who shows up to read lines; he’s a multi-faceted artist who can contribute to productions in numerous ways.
Notable Works
While Leake has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, some of his work stands out. His performance in “The Killing Floor” (1984) was particularly praised. The film was selected for the Cannes Classics 2021 screening, highlighting its enduring impact.
In theater, Leake has written and composed musicals. His first musical, “Child of the Sun,” won the Richard Rodgers Production Award. He’s also written other plays, including “Till Sundown Tomorrow [Stories My Father Told Me]” and “We Boys”.
Training Regimen
Leake’s athletic achievements don’t come without hard work. When he first discovered masters track and field, he was told he was only half a second off the world record. His response? “Oh, my, now I have to train. Now I have to train.”
While specific details of his training regimen aren’t public, it’s clear that Leake maintains a rigorous routine to stay in top form. His continued record-breaking performances well into his 70s are a testament to his dedication and discipline.
Recent Achievements
As of December 27, 2024, Damien Leake continues to be active in both acting and athletics. His recent achievements include:
- Setting two world records in 2023 at age 70
- Winning gold and silver medals at the National Senior Games in Pittsburgh
- Continuing to appear in TV shows like “Tyler Perry’s Assisted Living”
Leake’s continued success in both his artistic and athletic pursuits shows that age is just a number. He’s a living example of the benefits of staying active and pursuing your passions throughout life.
Conclusion
Damien Leake’s life is a testament to the power of versatility, dedication, and lifelong learning. From the stages of Broadway to the tracks of world-class athletic competitions, Leake has left his mark in multiple fields. His commitment to civil rights and mentoring young athletes shows that his impact extends far beyond his personal achievements. As he continues to break records and take on new roles, Damien Leake remains an inspiration to people of all ages.
