80’s TV’s “The A-Team” Star “Mr. T” to be Inducted into IBA Hall of Fame

The Chicago native starred as “The A-Team’s” B.A. Baracus for 5 seasons on NBC

(Springfield, IL) The unmistakable “Mr. T” is set to be inducted into the IBA (Illinois Broadcasters Association’s) Hall of Fame during a luncheon in his honor at the association’s annual one-day conference, IBA2025, Monday, October 27^th, at Doubletree’s President Abraham Lincoln Springfield hotel.

            The People’s Choice award winner was born Laurence Tureaud in Chicago in 1952. The youngest of twelve children, he would later legally change his name to “Mr. T.”  

Once a professional wrestler, it was his role as B.A. Baracus in the popular 80’s American-action TV Series “The A-Team” that made him a household name and whose work would lead to movie roles, including that of character Cubber Lange in Rocky III where the expression “I pity the fool” was first spoken and later trademarked by the actor.

            When learning of his invitation for IBA Hall of Fame induction, the 73-year-old actor replied, “I am honored to be inducted (into the IBA Hall of Fame.) I pity the fool!”

             “We’re thrilled with Mr. T’s acceptance to our invitation,” remarked IBA president and CEO Dennis Lyle. “His is one of the true faces of 80’s American television and while we would be honored to induct him anytime, anywhere, it seems fitting that the actor whose TV character’s appearance was one of the most duplicated Halloween costumes in the 80’s, would be inducted just days before Halloween, at this year’s Halloween-themed conference.”

            The private luncheon is open exclusively to IBA2025 attendees and invited guests.