Last question first, yes, I'm old enough to remember him, no worries, old guys rule!
First question last, I play chess, but I suck at it, and just don't have time to play too much. Wish I did. I will say, whether you're good or bad, chess teaches you a life lesson, don't just plan your next move, plan waaay ahead and cover all contingencies that may arise. If my opponent does X, I'll have to Y, etc.