5 Things You Never Knew About Mr. T

A-TEAM, Mr. T., 1983-1987 — Everett Collection

Mr. T turns 73 on May 21, 2025 and for many of us, he’ll always be B.A. Baracus from The A-Team, the tough and fearless mechanic who hated to fly, loved his momma and could take down any bad guy with a single glare. But while his gold chains and mohawk made him instantly recognizable, there’s much more to Mr. T than just his looks and TV legend status. Here are five things you may not know about the man who made “I pity the fool” a permanent part of our vocabulary:

1 He was a trusted bodyguard to the stars

Universal/Everett Collection

Before becoming a household name, Mr. T worked as a professional bodyguard, protecting some of the biggest names in Hollywood and beyond. His client list included Muhammad Ali, Steve McQueen and Diana Ross, and he built a reputation for being both tough and deeply loyal. That experience helped shape his on-screen image and opened the door to his acting career.

2 His iconic hairstyle came from National Geographic

NEW YORK, NY - MAY 17: Mr. T attends Mr. T And Nik Wallenda Celebrate National Amazing Month at Flatiron Plaza on May 17, 2016 in New York City

Brad Barket/Getty Images

Mr. T’s signature mohawk was inspired by a photo he saw in National Geographic of a Mandinka warrior from West Africa. Originally, he attempted to shave a “T” into his head, but tried out the bold mohawk look instead when that didn’t go as planned. It was a tribute to his African heritage and a powerful symbol of pride, and it became one of the most recognizable hairstyles of the ’80s.

3 He gave up his gold chains for a meaningful reason

CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS, Mr. T as the voice of Earl Deveraux, on set, 2009

Sony Pictures/Everett Collection

For years, those heavy gold chains were as much a part of Mr. T’s image as his gruff voice and fearless attitude. But in 2005, after seeing the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, he decided to stop wearing them for a while. He felt showing off wealth while so many people were suffering was disrespectful.

4 He had his own cereal

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At the height of his fame, Mr. T had his very own breakfast cereal, complete with crunchy, T-shaped pieces. He even starred in commercials for it, and the cereal made a memorable appearance in Pee-wee’s Big Adventure. While it didn’t stay on shelves for long, it became a nostalgic favorite for fans who grew up in the ’80s. Did you ever get to try it?

5 He fought cancer for six years and came out stronger

NBC/Everett Collection

In 1995, Mr. T was diagnosed with cancer at age 43. It was a long and difficult fight, but after six years of treatment, he beat the disease and emerged stronger than ever. He spoke candidly about the experience later in life, and credited his faith and family for helping him get through that tough time.