Richard Anthony "Cheech" Marin, born in 1946, is an American actor, comedian, screenwriter, and art collector. He gained international fame in the 1970s and 1980s as a member of the comedy duo Cheech & Chong, alongside Tommy Chong, releasing a series of highly successful albums and films, including the 1978 cult classic *Up in Smoke*, which defined the "stoner comedy" genre. Following the duo's split, Marin embarked on a prolific solo career, demonstrating considerable versatility. His most notable roles include Inspector Joe Dominguez in the television series *Nash Bridges* and voicing iconic characters in animated films, such as Banzai in *The Lion King* and Ramone in Pixar's *Cars* franchise. He also wrote, directed, and starred in the film *Born in East L.A.*. In addition to his artistic career, he is a renowned collector of Chicano art, a commitment that culminated in the opening of The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture, which houses his vast and prestigious collection.