Alfalfa biography

He was freckled. He was squeaky-voiced. He had an uncontrollable cowlick. And, he had an irrepressible personality. When you think of Alfalfa, the images conquer the imagination, and the joy is unconfined. His Our Gang appearances have made him an unforgettable part of film history, and his is a story that is packed with adventures, with more than its share of difficulty.

Carl Dean Switzer was born on August 8, , in Paris, Illinois, to George and Gladys Switzer. Carl had an older brother, Harold Frederick Switzer, who would also work in films with his little brother. The two boys created quite a sensation, singing at auctions and various functions near their parents’ farm in Illinois. One time, when visiting their grandparents in California, Carl and Harold decided to try their luck at auditioning for Hal Roach’s popular Our Gang series. However, the boys had some difficulty getting onto the studio grounds without a pass. So, the two stood outside the commissary, and amidst the

•

Alfalfa from Little Rascals is more than just a character with a quirky hairstyle and a penchant for breaking into song—he’s a cultural icon who has charmed generations of audiences. From his unique personality to his humorous escapades, Alfalfa has become a household name, representing innocence, mischief, and the joys of childhood. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or new to the world of "The Little Rascals," there’s so much to uncover about this unforgettable character.

Originally part of the famed “Our Gang” series, also known as "The Little Rascals," Alfalfa’s character brought a unique blend of humor, innocence, and relatability. Played by Carl Switzer, Alfalfa was known for his off-key singing, signature cowlick hairstyle, and his romantic misadventures, particularly with his crush, Darla. Despite the series’ comedic tone, it subtly addressed social issues of its time, making Alfalfa not just a funny character but a

•

Carl "Alfalfa" Switzer

American actor and singer (–)

Carl Switzer
Switzer in Our Gang Follies of
Born	Carl Dean Switzer ()August 7, Paris, Illinois, U.S.
Died	January 21, () (aged&#;31) Mission Hills, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Cause&#;of death	Homicide by gunshot wound
Resting place	Hollywood alltid Cemetery, Los Angeles, California
Other&#;names	Alfalfa Switzer
Occupations	Singer child actor dog breeder guide
Years&#;active	&#;
Spouse	Dian Collingwood &#; &#; (m.&#;; div.&#;)&#;
Children	1
Relatives	Harold "Slim" Switzer (brother)

Carl Dean Switzer (August 7, ^[1] &#; January 21, ) was an American child actor, comic singer, dog breeder, and guide. He was best known for his role as Alfalfa in the Our Gang series of short-subject comedies.

Switzer (rhyming with "Schweitzer", as referenced in the film Alfalfa's Aunt) began his career as a child actor in He ap