
Ivan Gene LeBell (October 9, 1932 – August 9, 2022) is an American martial artist, stunt performer, actor, and former professional wrestler. Nicknamed "the Godfather of Grappling", LeBell is widely credited with popularizing grappling in professional fighting circles, serving as a precursor to modern mixed martial arts. LeBell has also worked on over 1,000 films and TV shows and has authored 12 books. In 2000, the United States Ju-Jitsu Federation (USJJF) promoted him to 9th Dan in jujitsu and taihojutsu. On August 7, 2004, the World Martial Arts Masters Association promoted LeBell to 10th Degree and in February 2005, he was promoted to 9th Dan in Traditional Judo by the USJJF. LeBell served as an inspiration for the character of Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt) in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood.

The X-Files
TV • 1993

Family Matters
TV • 1989

Married... with Children
TV • 1987

Married... with Children
TV • 1987

Married... with Children
TV • 1987

Married... with Children
TV • 1987

MacGyver
TV • 1985

Ironside
TV • 1967

Strong Medicine
TV • 2000

Falcon Crest
TV • 1981

Quincy, M.E.
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The Incredible Hulk
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That '70s Show
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T. J. Hooker
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Hart to Hart
TV • 1979

Simon & Simon
TV • 1981

Taxi
TV • 1978

Taxi
TV • 1978