Richard Caruthers "Rich" Little (born November 26, 1938) is a comedian and impressionist whose career has spanned nightclubs, television, recordings and long‑running headline work in Las Vegas. Born in Ottawa, Ontario, he is widely described as one of the most versatile imitators of public figures, earning the informal nickname "the man of a thousand voices." Little holds ties to both countries as a American-Canadian performer and became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2008.

Career and performing style

Little built his reputation on sharp, recognizable impressions of politicians, talk‑show hosts and entertainers. His routines often blend mimicry with short sketches, transitions between characters and pointed comic timing. He became known for impersonations of well‑known figures including presidents (for example, Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan) and broadcast personalities and singers (such as Johnny Carson and Dean Martin), delivered in a manner that emphasized vocal detail and mannerisms rather than broad caricature.

Mediums and notable work

Over several decades Little worked across multiple media: live nightclub and casino engagements, television specials and guest spots, recorded comedy albums, and voice acting. He is credited as the first actor to provide the speaking voice for the Pink Panther character in film productions, and his stage shows became a staple of Las Vegas entertainment. He has also received industry recognition, including a Juno Award for his recorded work.

  • Live performance: long runs in clubs and casinos, particularly in Las Vegas (Las Vegas, Nevada).
  • Television: specials, variety formats and frequent guest appearances on late‑night programs.
  • Voice and recordings: character work for film animation and comedy albums.

Early life and personal background

Little was born and raised in Ottawa and began performing in Canada before moving to wider North American stages. His personal life has been public at times: he fathered a daughter named Lyndsay Cottrell in 1988, and he has been married several times. Reported marriages include Jeanne Worden (1971–1989), Jeannette Markey (1994–1997), Marie Marotta (2003–2010; her death), and Catherine Brown (married 2012). He resides in Las Vegas, Nevada, and retained a presence in both Canadian and American entertainment circles.

Recognition and legacy

Rich Little helped popularize the modern celebrity impression as a distinct comedic form, influencing later impressionists and comic actors who use voice and physical mannerism to create character sketches. His blend of affectionate mimicry, precise vocal work and stagecraft made him a fixture of mid‑20th‑century variety entertainment and earned him awards and longstanding audience appeal. For further basic references and career overviews see materials linked to his national and industry profiles: American profile, Canadian profile.

Notable facts

  • Known for impersonating political leaders and showbusiness figures with detailed vocal imitation.
  • First credited speaking voice for the Pink Panther character in film work.
  • Maintained a multi‑decade headline career, particularly in Las Vegas venues.