Fred “The Hammer” Williamson. Actor / Producer / NFL Hall of Fame

A few years ago, I passed through the lobby of the Loews Hotel in Santa Monica, during American Film Market. Fred “The Hammer” Williamson was standing a bar table, next to a nebbish young man. I had never met him, but admired him–particularly as a producer.

I introduced myself, and asked him if he played his entire career with the Oakland Raiders. He replied that he played his final year with the Kansas City Chiefs. I then asked him if he knew why there are so many Black people in Oakland and so many Armenians in Fresno.

He paused a moment, then held up his large hand on which two Super Bowl championship rings were on his middle and pinkie fingers. He said “Because we’re champions, baby”. I rejoined “Nah, Oakland got to choose first”. I nodded and started to walk away.  But, he asked me to stick around, which I did, and we had a nice chat.

A few years later, I encountered him one evening at the Loews, again during the AFM.  He told me was there to see some old friends and–politely acknowledging my date–said he was there to “meet pretty ladies”.  I told him to let me know if he met any.  She immediately burst into laughter, while Mr Williamson abjured for the moment before recognizing that I was joking and my date clearly took no insult.

His reflexive kindness spoke volumes.  He had gone from playing a violent sport to performing in violent movies, but bore a kindness that transcended both.  What a gentleman.