Cheech Marin

Cheech Marin, a celebrated comedian and actor, earned a Grammy Award in 1973 for Best Comedy Recording with the album ‘Los Cochinos’ as one half of the influential comedy duo Cheech & Chong. The duo achieved significant success throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, releasing multiple acclaimed comedy albums and starring in hit feature films, most notably the iconic ‘Up in Smoke’ (1978). Marin diversified his career in 1987 with his directorial debut, the critically praised film ‘Born in East L.A.,’ in which he also starred, showcasing his multifaceted talents beyond his comedic partnership. Following the disbandment of Cheech & Chong in 1985, Marin successfully transitioned into a prolific solo acting career.

Beyond his extensive entertainment career, Marin developed a deep passion for Chicano art, commencing his personal collection in the 1980s. This dedication culminated in the monumental establishment of The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture & Industry in Riverside, California, which officially opened its doors on June 18, 2022. Marin’s significant contribution includes the donation of his collection of over 700 pieces of Chicano art, establishing the center as home to the largest collection of its kind globally. His profound impact across both entertainment and cultural advocacy has been further acknowledged with the upcoming 2025 Hispanic Heritage Award for Arts.

Marin remains active in film and television, with recent appearances including the 2022 romantic comedy ‘Shotgun Wedding,’ the 2023 sports comedy ‘Champions,’ and the 2023 historical drama ‘The Long Game.’ He is also slated to appear in the upcoming 2025 feature film ‘Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip,’ continuing to expand his diverse body of work.