- African-American character actor who typified Hollywood's racist treatment--and views--of blacks in the 1930s as an easily frightened, wide-eyed, menial type. His career declined as the image of the black male became more respectful in an increasingly race-conscious age. Appeared in several films of legendary director John Ford. In between acting jobs, Washington was an officer in the Los Angeles Police Department.
- The nickname "Blue" came from Frank Capra, one of his best pals in the ethnically diverse surroundings of Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles.
- He died at Mira Loma Hospital in Lancaster (CA). He was laid to rest at Evergreen Memorial Park in Los Angeles. His son was buried beside him in 1971.
- He had a son, Kenny Washington, with his wife, Marion.
- Was injured on the set of The Plainsman (1936) when a team of horses pulling a stagecoach suddenly bolted and knocked him and two other extras down.
- Co-starred with John Wayne in "Haunted Gold" in 1932.
- Son of Susie Washington.
- Grandfather of Kenny Washington, Jr.
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