Movies with Tommy Lister Jr.

Tommy "Tiny" Lister Jr. was a commanding presence on the big screen, bringing an unmistakable intensity and physicality to his roles. Born with a deformed right eye that added a striking, unforgettable look, Lister carved out an impressive career as a prolific character actor, often playing the neighborhood bully or intimidating heavy. Lister's breakout role came in the 1995 comedy classic Friday, where he memorably portrayed the imposing neighborhood thug Deebo. Reprising the role in the 2000 sequel, Lister's Deebo became an iconic figure, his imposing stature and snarling delivery making him a formidable on-screen adversary. But Lister proved he could handle dramatic material as well, delivering a powerful performance as the ruthless President Lindberg in the sci-fi epic The Fifth Element. Throughout his career, Lister demonstrated remarkable versatility, effortlessly shifting between tough-guy roles and more nuanced supporting parts. Whether commanding the screen in action films like Fury of the Fist and the Golden Fleece or bringing humor and heart to comedies like I Got the Hook Up 2, Lister's commanding presence and unique physical attributes made him an instantly recognizable and indelible figure in cinema. His passing in 2020 was a loss for the film community, but his memorable performances will endure as a testament to his talent and enduring impact on the industry.