Rudy Ray Moore was an American comedian, actor, and singer, best known for his role as the character Dolemite. Born on March 17, 1927, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, he gained fame in the 1970s for his unique style of comedy that combined raunchy humor with rhythm and poetry. His performances often featured explicit language and themes, appealing to a wide audience. In addition to his stand-up career, Moore produced and starred in several films, including the cult classic Dolemite (1975). His work has had a lasting impact on the genre of black cinema and has influenced many artists, including Eddie Murphy, who portrayed him in the 2019 film Dolemite Is My Name.