Lavell Maurice Crawford, born on November 11, 1968, is an American comedian and actor celebrated for his role as Huell Babineaux in "Breaking Bad" (2011-2013) and its spin-off, "Better Call Saul" (2017-2022). His career spans over three decades, marked by stand-up comedy, television appearances, and film roles.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Lavell Crawford embarked on his stand-up comedy career in 1990. He gained prominence through frequent performances on BET's "ComicView" during the 1990s. In 2007, he participated in NBC's "Last Comic Standing," where he finished as a runner-up to Jon Reep in the season finale. Crawford's comedy often touches on subjects ranging from food and family to his personal experiences.
Breakthrough Role: Huell Babineaux
Crawford's portrayal of Huell Babineaux, Saul Goodman's bodyguard and accomplice, in "Breaking Bad" and "Better Call Saul," catapulted him to wider recognition. Huell provides a variety of services to Saul, including personal protection, intimidation and pick-pocketing. The character's stoic demeanor and willingness to carry out Saul's schemes made him a memorable figure in both series.
Huell's Key Moments
- Planting the Cell Phone Battery: During Jimmy McGill's bar association hearing, Huell plants a cell phone battery in Chuck McGill's pocket to discredit Chuck's electromagnetic hypersensitivity claims.
- Protecting Jimmy: Huell serves as a bodyguard for Jimmy's business of reselling prepaid cellular phones.
- Assaulting a Police Officer: Huell assaults a police officer while protecting Jimmy, leading to his arrest and potential prison sentence.
- The Coushatta Con: Kim Wexler and Jimmy orchestrate a con in Coushatta, Louisiana, to generate supportive letters for Huell, leading to a plea bargain.
- The Valet Scam: Huell pickpockets Howard Hamlin's car keys as part of Jimmy and Kim's plot against Howard.
- Intimidating Ted Beneke: Huell and Patrick Kuby attempt to intimidate Ted Beneke into paying his IRS debts, resulting in an accident that leaves Ted paraplegic.
- Involvement in Walter White's Schemes: Huell is involved in Walter White's plan to poison Brock Cantillo by pickpocketing the ricin cigarette from Jesse Pinkman.
- Interrogation by Hank Schrader: Hank Schrader and Steven Gomez interrogate Huell, leading him to reveal the location of Walt's buried money.
- Huell's Fate: After Hank and Gomez are killed, Huell's fate is uncertain. Vince Gilligan suggested that Huell would eventually be released and return to New Orleans.
Crawford's Weight Loss Journey
In March 2016, Lavell Crawford's weight peaked at approximately 500 pounds (230 kg). His weight loss journey has been a significant part of his personal narrative and stand-up routines.
"Better Call Saul" Appearance
When Lavell Crawford made his debut on “Better Call Saul”, people noticed that he had lost some weight. Crawford humorously recounted that when he arrived on set, the producers initially wanted him to wear a fat suit. Crawford managed to convince the producers that it wasn't necessary.
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Other Acting Roles and Comedy Specials
Besides his role as Huell Babineaux, Crawford has showcased his acting abilities in various projects, including the Netflix film "The Ridiculous 6." He has also released multiple comedy specials, including "Love Al and Especial," which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album in 2021.
Stand-up Comedy and Personal Appearances
Lavell Crawford continues to perform stand-up comedy, drawing on his life experiences and observations to entertain audiences. His stand-up routine covers subjects from food and family to his weight loss journey. He also makes appearances at comedy clubs and events across the country.
Crawford's Philosophy
Crawford emphasizes the importance of consistency and seizing opportunities. He credits his success to hard work, perseverance, and the support of mentors like Steve Harvey and Rashan McDonald. Crawford encourages aspiring comedians to use every opportunity to showcase their talent and connect with audiences.
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