Meaning: Broderick Crawford, the actor who famously said, "I've made upwards of a million bucks in the cops-and-robbers business," was known for his roles in various crime and detective-themed films and television shows. Born in 1911, Crawford began his acting career in the 1930s and gained widespread recognition for his role as Willie Stark in the film "All the King's Men," for which he won an Academy Award for Best Actor in 1949. However, it was his portrayal of tough, no-nonsense law enforcement officers in the 1950s television series "Highway Patrol" that solidified his association with the "cops-and-robbers business."

Crawford's quote reflects his success and financial gain from his involvement in the crime and law enforcement genre. The phrase "cops-and-robbers business" is a colloquialism that refers to the entertainment industry's production of crime-related content, such as movies, television shows, and plays. Crawford's use of the term "business" suggests that he viewed his acting career, particularly his roles in crime dramas, as a lucrative and successful venture.

In the context of his career, the quote highlights Crawford's accomplishments and financial rewards from his work in portraying characters involved in the world of crime and law enforcement. Beyond the financial aspect, it also speaks to Crawford's impact and influence on the genre, as he became synonymous with the portrayal of authoritative figures, often on the side of law and order.

Moreover, Crawford's statement may also reflect the broader cultural fascination with crime and law enforcement narratives. The "cops-and-robbers" theme has been a perennial favorite in entertainment, captivating audiences with its portrayal of conflict, justice, and moral ambiguity. Crawford's success in this genre speaks to the enduring appeal of crime-related stories and characters, as well as the financial rewards that can come from effectively embodying these roles.

Crawford's quote can also be interpreted as a reflection of the societal interest in crime and justice. Throughout history, the public has been captivated by stories of law enforcement and criminal activities, and the entertainment industry has often capitalized on this interest. Crawford's success in the "cops-and-robbers business" not only demonstrates his talent and skill as an actor but also underscores the enduring popularity of crime-related narratives and their financial viability in the entertainment industry.

Overall, Broderick Crawford's quote provides insight into his successful career in the entertainment industry, particularly in the realm of crime and law enforcement-themed productions. It reflects the enduring appeal of the "cops-and-robbers" genre, as well as the financial rewards and recognition that can come from portraying characters within this realm. Crawford's impact on the genre and his ability to command significant earnings from his involvement in such projects solidify his place as a notable figure in the history of crime-themed entertainment.