Black Actors You Won’t Believe Are Turning 80 Next Year

Hitting 80 is a milestone, and these accomplished Black actors have spent decades shaping stage, film, and television. From breakout TV roles that defined whole eras to award-winning turns on Broadway and in Hollywood, their careers show how much range and staying power true craft can have. Here are notable names reaching that big birthday next year.

Danny Glover

Danny Glover built an enduring screen career with major roles in ‘The Color Purple’, ‘Lethal Weapon’, and ‘Places in the Heart’. He trained at the Black Actors’ Workshop at the American Conservatory Theater and emerged from San Francisco’s vibrant arts scene. Beyond acting, he has produced films and worked extensively in humanitarian causes. He remains active on screen with recent appearances in projects like ‘Jumanji: The Next Level’ and ‘The Last Black Man in San Francisco’.

Ben Vereen

Ben Vereen became a Broadway fixture with star turns in ‘Pippin’ and ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’. He reached a wide TV audience in ‘Roots’ and later worked across film and series while maintaining a busy stage schedule. Vereen has taught master classes and directed theater productions, passing on his performance knowledge to younger artists. He continues to appear in television guest roles and concerts.

Antonio Fargas

Antonio Fargas is widely recognized for playing Huggy Bear on ‘Starsky & Hutch’. He appeared in numerous blaxploitation-era films and later transitioned into steady television and stage work. Fargas has toured with stage productions and engaged in arts education initiatives. He also made cameo appearances that nod to his classic TV persona in later reboots and specials.

Demond Wilson

Demond Wilson became a household name as Lamont on ‘Sanford and Son’. After the sitcom’s run, he led ‘The New Odd Couple’ on television and continued acting in films and stage productions. Wilson also authored books and pursued ministry and community work. He has taken part in retrospectives and interviews that chronicle the making of his landmark sitcom.

Gregory Hines

Gregory Hines brought world-class tap to mainstream audiences while acting in ‘White Nights’, ‘Running Scared’, and ‘The Cotton Club’. He headlined stage musicals, released recordings, and choreographed performances that elevated tap as a contemporary art form. Hines won major theater honors and anchored TV projects that showcased dance history. His legacy includes scholarships and tributes that keep his style and instruction alive.

Samuel E. Wright

Samuel E. Wright is remembered for originating Mufasa on Broadway in ‘The Lion King’ and voicing Sebastian in Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’. His performance introduced a signature song to generations of viewers and earned award recognition. Wright also appeared in film and television while leading community theater initiatives in New York. His work in arts education inspired local programs that continue to stage youth productions.

Derek Griffiths

Derek Griffiths became a familiar face on British children’s television with series like ‘Play School’ and later moved into prime-time dramas. He has an extensive stage résumé, including West End productions and national tours. Griffiths’ voice work spans animation, narration, and video games. He continues to appear on television and in theater while making guest appearances at cultural events.

André De Shields

André De Shields earned major acclaim on Broadway, culminating in a Tony Award for ‘Hadestown’. His earlier highlights include ‘The Wiz’ and ‘Ain’t Misbehavin’’, alongside extensive regional theater and concert work. De Shields has taught, directed, and mentored performers through university programs and master classes. He frequently delivers keynote talks about longevity and discipline in the performing arts.

Samm-Art Williams

Samm-Art Williams balanced acting with writing and producing, earning recognition for the play ‘Home’. On screen, he appeared in television series and films while building a behind-the-scenes career in development. Williams contributed scripts to popular shows and helped shepherd projects for emerging talent. His plays remain in rotation at regional theaters and academic programs.

Share your picks in the comments for other Black actors hitting this milestone next year.