Jimmy Dean

Country Music Legend and Sausage Entrepreneur

An American country singer and TV personality, born August 10, 1928 in Plainview, Texas; died June 13, 2010 at his home in Henrico County, Virginia. Best known for his 1961 country & crossover hit "Big Bad John", #1 on the country, mainstream & UK charts, Dean also hit #1 on the country charts with 1965's "The First Thing Ev'ry Morning". His television exposure blossomed when CBS carried The Jimmy Dean Show to a wide audience. Among his widespread appearances, the early 1960's saw him host television's The Tonight Show on occasion, and 1971 saw him cast in a supporting role in the James Bond film "Diamonds Are Forever". His accolades include induction to the Country Music Hall Of Fame.