African-American Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away

The history of film and television is filled with talented African-American actors who broke barriers and delivered unforgettable performances. Many of these individuals spent decades honing their craft and appearing in some of the most popular projects in entertainment history. While their faces and voices remain familiar through reruns and streaming services, the news of their passing may have missed the headlines for some fans. This list honors their contributions to the arts and remembers the legacies they left behind.

Michael Kenneth Williams

Michael K. Williams gained widespread recognition for his iconic portrayal of Omar Little in the television drama ‘The Wire’. He was celebrated for his ability to bring nuance to characters in series like ‘Boardwalk Empire’ and ‘Lovecraft Country’. His career included notable film roles in ’12 Years a Slave’ and ‘The Road’. Williams received five Primetime Emmy Award nominations for his work throughout his career. He passed away in 2021 at the age of 54.

Lance Reddick

Lance Reddick was a prolific actor known for his commanding presence and distinctive voice in television and film. He held major roles in series such as ‘The Wire’ and ‘Fringe’ where he played authoritative figures. Many modern audiences recognize him as Charon from the ‘John Wick’ film franchise. Reddick also contributed his voice and likeness to popular video games like ‘Destiny 2’ and ‘Horizon Zero Dawn’. He passed away in 2023 just before the release of his final films.

Michael Clarke Duncan

Michael Clarke Duncan became a breakout star after his Academy Award nominated performance in ‘The Green Mile’. His massive physical stature and deep voice led to roles in big budget films like ‘Armageddon’ and ‘Planet of the Apes’. He also played the villainous Kingpin in the movie ‘Daredevil’ and voiced characters in ‘Kung Fu Panda’. Duncan was a beloved figure in Hollywood known for his gentle personality and professional dedication. He died in 2012 following a heart attack.

Andre Braugher

Andre Braugher was a versatile actor who excelled in both intense dramas and lighthearted comedies. He first rose to fame as Detective Frank Pembleton in ‘Homicide Life on the Street’ where he won an Emmy. Later in his career he became a fan favorite as Captain Raymond Holt on the sitcom ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Braugher earned numerous accolades for his stage and screen work over several decades. He passed away in 2023 after a brief illness.

James Avery

James Avery is best remembered for his portrayal of Philip Banks on the popular sitcom ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. His character served as a stern but loving father figure to a generation of television viewers. Avery was also a prolific voice actor who provided the voice for Shredder in the original ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ animated series. He appeared in various shows including ‘The Closer’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ throughout his long career. He passed away in 2013 following complications from surgery.

Reg E. Cathey

Reg E. Cathey was a character actor with a resonant voice who appeared in many critically acclaimed projects. He won an Emmy Award for his role as Freddy Hayes in the political drama ‘House of Cards’. Fans also remember him for his roles in ‘The Wire’ and ‘Oz’ on the small screen. His film credits include ‘Se7en’ and the 2015 version of ‘Fantastic Four’. Cathey was known for his ability to make even small roles memorable through his delivery. He died in 2018.

Bill Nunn

Bill Nunn was an actor who became famous for his collaboration with director Spike Lee. He played the memorable character Radio Raheem in the film ‘Do the Right Thing’. Nunn also appeared in the ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy directed by Sam Raimi as Joseph Robbie Robertson. His career spanned decades with roles in ‘New Jack City’ and ‘Sister Act’. He was also active in the theater community in his hometown of Pittsburgh. Nunn passed away in 2016.

Thomas Jefferson Byrd

Thomas Jefferson Byrd was a frequent collaborator of Spike Lee and appeared in several of the director’s most famous films. His credits include ‘Clockers’ and ‘Get on the Bus’ as well as ‘Bamboozled’. Byrd earned a Tony Award nomination for his performance in the revival of ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’. He was highly respected for his stage work and his dedication to the craft of acting. Byrd passed away in 2020.

Sherman Hemsley

Sherman Hemsley became a cultural icon for his role as George Jefferson on ‘All in the Family’ and its spin-off ‘The Jeffersons’. His energetic performance helped make the show one of the longest running sitcoms in television history. He later starred in the series ‘Amen’ and made guest appearances on ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. Hemsley was also a talented musician who released a jazz and blues album during his career. He passed away in 2012.

Robert Guillaume

Robert Guillaume was a trailblazing actor who won two Emmy Awards for his role as Benson DuBois. The character first appeared on ‘Soap’ before getting a successful spin-off series titled ‘Benson’. He was also the voice of Rafiki in the animated classic ‘The Lion King’. Guillaume had a distinguished career on Broadway and was the first African-American to play the lead role in ‘The Phantom of the Opera’. He died in 2017.

Gregory Hines

Gregory Hines was a legendary tap dancer and actor who brought his unique talents to the screen. He starred in films such as ‘White Nights’ and ‘The Cotton Club’ where he showcased his dancing skills. Hines won a Tony Award for his work on Broadway in the musical ‘Jelly’s Last Jam’. He also had his own television series and a recurring role on ‘Will and Grace’. Hines passed away in 2003.

Moses J. Moseley

Moses J. Moseley was a young actor who gained attention for his role on the hit series ‘The Walking Dead’. He played one of the pet walkers that followed the character Michonne in the early seasons. Moseley also appeared in the film ‘The Hunger Games Catching Fire’ and the series ‘Watchmen’. He was an active member of the entertainment community in Georgia. Moseley passed away in 2022.

Lee Thompson Young

Lee Thompson Young first rose to fame as the star of the Disney Channel series ‘The Famous Jett Jackson’. He successfully transitioned into adult roles with a lead part in the crime drama ‘Rizzoli and Isles’. His film work included a role in the high school football movie ‘Friday Night Lights’. Young was praised by colleagues for his professionalism and kind nature on set. He passed away in 2013.

Gary Coleman

Gary Coleman became one of the biggest child stars of the late 1970s on the sitcom ‘Diff’rent Strokes’. His catchphrase became a staple of American pop culture during the show’s long run. Despite his early success he faced many challenges in his adult life while continuing to work in the industry. He appeared in various television shows and independent films over the years. Coleman passed away in 2010.

Isaac Hayes

Isaac Hayes was a multitalented artist who found success as a musician and an actor. He won an Academy Award for best original song for the film ‘Shaft’ and also appeared in the movie. Younger audiences know him best as the voice of Chef on the animated series ‘South Park’. His film roles included ‘Escape from New York’ and ‘I’m Gonna Git You Sucka’. Hayes passed away in 2008.

Bernie Mac

Bernie Mac was a stand-up comedian and actor known for his distinct style and honest humor. He starred in ‘The Bernie Mac Show’ which ran for five seasons and earned him multiple award nominations. His film career included major roles in ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ and ‘Guess Who’. He was also one of the stars of the documentary film ‘The Original Kings of Comedy’. Mac died in 2008 due to complications from pneumonia.

Charlie Murphy

Charlie Murphy was an actor and comedian who became a breakout star on ‘Chappelle’s Show’. His stories about encounters with celebrities became some of the most famous sketches in the show’s history. He was the older brother of Eddie Murphy and worked as a writer on several of his films. Murphy also appeared in movies like ‘Night at the Museum’ and provided voices for ‘The Boondocks’. He passed away in 2017.

John Witherspoon

John Witherspoon was a beloved comedic actor whose career spanned over four decades. He is most famous for playing Willie Jones in the ‘Friday’ film franchise. Witherspoon also voiced Robert Freeman on the animated series ‘The Boondocks’. He appeared in numerous films like ‘Boomerang’ and ‘Vampire in Brooklyn’ alongside major stars. He died in 2019 at his home in California.

Richard Pryor

Richard Pryor is considered one of the most influential comedians and actors of all time. He starred in classic films such as ‘Stir Crazy’ and ‘Silver Streak’ alongside Gene Wilder. Pryor also appeared in dramatic roles like ‘Lady Sings the Blues’ and ‘Blue Collar’. His work changed the landscape of stand-up comedy and paved the way for future generations of performers. He passed away in 2005.

Clarence Williams III

Clarence Williams III first became a star playing Linc Hayes on the police series ‘The Mod Squad’. He later appeared in diverse roles such as the father of Prince’s character in ‘Purple Rain’. His television work included a recurring role in ‘Twin Peaks’ and guest spots on ‘American Horror Story’. Williams was respected for his intense acting style and his ability to command the screen. He died in 2021.

Richard Roundtree

Richard Roundtree was an actor who became a symbol of the blaxploitation film era as the lead in ‘Shaft’. He played the iconic private detective in several films and a short lived television series. Roundtree continued to work steadily for decades appearing in films like ‘Seven’ and ‘Speed Racer’. He also had recurring roles on modern shows like ‘Being Mary Jane’. He passed away in 2023.

Ron Cephas Jones

Ron Cephas Jones was a stage and screen actor who won two Emmy Awards for his work on ‘This Is Us’. He played William Hill a role that earned him widespread critical acclaim for its emotional depth. His other credits include ‘Luke Cage’ and ‘Mr. Robot’ as well as roles in theater productions. Jones was known for his thoughtful approach to his characters and his mastery of dialogue. He died in 2023.

Yaphet Kotto

Yaphet Kotto was a versatile actor who appeared in some of the most popular films of the 1970s and 1980s. He played the villain Mr. Big in the James Bond movie ‘Live and Let Die’. Kotto also had a major role as Parker in the science fiction classic ‘Alien’. He spent several years starring as Lieutenant Al Giardello on the series ‘Homicide Life on the Street’. Kotto passed away in 2021.

Woody Strode

Woody Strode was a pioneer who played professional football before becoming a respected film actor. He appeared in several Westerns including ‘The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance’ and ‘The Professionals’. Strode received a Golden Globe nomination for his performance in the film ‘Spartacus’. He was known for his physical strength and his ability to portray dignified characters. He passed away in 1994.

Brock Peters

Brock Peters was an actor best known for his role as Tom Robinson in the film ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’. He also appeared in ‘Star Trek’ films and television series as Admiral Cartwright and Joseph Sisko. Peters was a talented singer who performed on Broadway and in various musical films. He provided the voice of Darth Vader for the radio dramatizations of ‘Star Wars’. He passed away in 2005.

Bernie Hamilton

Bernie Hamilton was a character actor who appeared in over 20 films during his long career. He is most recognized for his role as Captain Harold Dobey on the 1970s police series ‘Starsky and Hutch’. Hamilton also appeared in the film ‘The Young One’ directed by Luis Bunuel. He was the brother of famous jazz drummer Chico Hamilton. Bernie Hamilton died in 2008.

Moses Gunn

Moses Gunn was an actor who co-founded the Negro Ensemble Company and had a successful career on stage and screen. He appeared in films like ‘Shaft’ and ‘The NeverEnding Story’ where he played Cairon. Gunn received an Emmy nomination for his performance in the landmark miniseries ‘Roots’. He was also a respected Shakespearean actor who performed in many classical plays. He passed away in 1993.

Paul Winfield

Paul Winfield was an acclaimed actor who received an Academy Award nomination for his role in ‘Sounder’. He played Martin Luther King Jr. in the miniseries ‘King’ and appeared in ‘Star Trek II The Wrath of Khan’. Winfield won an Emmy Award for his guest role on the series ‘Picket Fences’. He was also a prolific narrator for television documentaries and specials. He died in 2004.

Cleavon Little

Cleavon Little was an actor who became a star after playing Sheriff Bart in the comedy classic ‘Blazing Saddles’. He won a Tony Award for his performance in the Broadway musical ‘Purlie’. Little also appeared in several television shows including a recurring role on ‘Dear John’. He was known for his impeccable comedic timing and his charming screen presence. He passed away in 1992.

Godfrey Cambridge

Godfrey Cambridge was a comedian and actor who was active during the 1960s and 1970s. He starred in the social satire ‘Watermelon Man’ and appeared in ‘Cotton Comes to Harlem’. Cambridge was also a popular guest on talk shows and variety programs during the height of his career. He was known for his sharp wit and his ability to use humor to address social issues. He died in 1976.

Scatman Crothers

Scatman Crothers was an actor and musician with a career that spanned several decades. He is famous for his role as Dick Hallorann in the horror film ‘The Shining’. Crothers also provided the voice for the character Hong Kong Phooey in the animated series of the same name. He appeared in many television shows like ‘Chico and the Man’ and ‘Roots’. He passed away in 1986.

Robert DoQui

Robert DoQui was a character actor who appeared in over 100 film and television projects. He is best known for playing Sergeant Reed in the ‘RoboCop’ film trilogy. DoQui also had roles in films directed by Robert Altman such as ‘Nashville’ and ‘Short Cuts’. He was a frequent guest star on television series throughout the 1970s and 1980s. He passed away in 2008.

James Edwards

James Edwards was a trailblazing actor who often played dignified roles in the post World War II era. He starred in the film ‘Home of the Brave’ which was one of the first movies to address racial prejudice. Edwards also appeared in ‘The Manchurian Candidate’ and ‘Patton’ alongside major Hollywood stars. He was a pioneer who paved the way for other African-American actors in the film industry. He died in 1970.

Greg Morris

Greg Morris was an actor who became a household name for his role as Barney Collier on ‘Mission Impossible’. He was one of the first African-American actors to have a consistent starring role on a major television series. Morris appeared in nearly every episode of the show’s original run. He later reprised his role in the 1980s revival of the series alongside his son. He passed away in 1996.

Ivan Dixon

Ivan Dixon was an actor and director who starred in the television series ‘Hogan’s Heroes’ as Sergeant Kinchloe. He also gave a powerful performance in the independent film ‘Nothing But a Man’. Dixon transitioned into directing and worked on many popular shows like ‘The A-Team’ and ‘Magnum P.I.’. He was a founding member of the Sidney Poitier led organization to help black actors. He died in 2008.

Lincoln Kilpatrick

Lincoln Kilpatrick was an actor who worked extensively in film and theater during his long career. He appeared in the science fiction film ‘The Omega Man’ and the drama ‘Soylent Green’. Kilpatrick was a co-founder of the Kilpatrick-Cambridge Theatre School in Hollywood. He also had guest roles on television series like ‘The Jeffersons’ and ‘Sister Sister’. He passed away in 2004.

Raymond St. Jacques

Raymond St. Jacques was an actor and director who was the first African-American to be cast as a regular on a Western series with ‘Rawhide’. He appeared in films like ‘The Green Berets’ and ‘Cotton Comes to Harlem’. St. Jacques also directed the film ‘Book of Numbers’ in which he also starred. He was active in the civil rights movement and used his platform to advocate for change. He died in 1990.

Otis Young

Otis Young was an actor who starred alongside Jack Nicholson in the film ‘The Last Detail’. He was also the co-star of the television Western series ‘The Outcasts’. Young later became a minister and a professor of communications at a community college. He appeared in guest roles on various television shows before leaving the industry. He passed away in 2001.

Max Julien

Max Julien was an actor and writer best known for his role as Goldie in the film ‘The Mack’. He also wrote the screenplay for the movie ‘Cleopatra Jones’ which became a classic of its genre. Julien appeared in other films like ‘Psych-Out’ and ‘Up Tight’. He was a prominent figure in the film community during the 1970s and remained a cult icon for years. He passed away in 2022.

Carl Weathers

Carl Weathers was a former professional football player who became a major movie star. He is most famous for playing Apollo Creed in the first four ‘Rocky’ films. Weathers also starred in ‘Predator’ and ‘Action Jackson’ as well as the comedy ‘Happy Gilmore’. In recent years he gained a new following for his role as Greef Karga in ‘The Mandalorian’. He passed away in 2024.

Louis Gossett Jr.

Louis Gossett Jr. was a legendary actor who won an Academy Award for his role in ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’. He was the first African-American man to win the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. His career included an Emmy winning performance in the miniseries ‘Roots’ and the ‘Iron Eagle’ film series. Gossett remained active in the industry for over six decades. He passed away in 2024.

Bill Cobbs

Bill Cobbs was a prolific character actor with over 100 film and television credits to his name. He appeared in popular movies such as ‘The Bodyguard’ and ‘Night at the Museum’. Cobbs was known for his warm screen presence and his ability to play wise mentor characters. He worked steadily into his nineties before his death in 2024.

James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones was one of the most respected actors in the history of American theater and film. He provided the iconic voice for Darth Vader in ‘Star Wars’ and Mufasa in ‘The Lion King’. His live action roles included ‘The Great White Hope’ and ‘Field of Dreams’. Jones received an Honorary Academy Award for his lifetime of achievement in the arts. He passed away in 2024.

Bubba Smith

Bubba Smith was a star athlete who successfully transitioned into a career in acting. He is best known for his role as Moses Hightower in the ‘Police Academy’ film series. Smith appeared in many television commercials and guest roles on shows like ‘Married with Children’. He was known for his towering height and his comedic timing. He passed away in 2011.

Jim Kelly

Jim Kelly was a martial artist and actor who rose to fame alongside Bruce Lee in ‘Enter the Dragon’. He became a major star of martial arts films like ‘Black Belt Jones’ and ‘Three the Hard Way’. Kelly was a professional tennis player on the senior circuit after he retired from acting. He remained a popular figure at martial arts and film conventions for decades. He passed away in 2013.

Meshach Taylor

Meshach Taylor was an actor best known for his role as Anthony Bouvier on the sitcom ‘Designing Women’. He received an Emmy nomination for his work on the series which ran for seven seasons. Taylor also appeared in the films ‘Mannequin’ and ‘Mannequin Two On the Move’. He was a regular guest on various game shows and talk programs throughout his career. He passed away in 2014.

Taurean Blacque

Taurean Blacque was an actor who earned an Emmy nomination for his role as Detective Neal Washington on ‘Hill Street Blues’. He was a mainstay on the series for its entire run in the 1980s. Blacque also appeared on the soap opera ‘Generations’ and had various guest roles on television. He was a dedicated advocate for adoption and was the father of many adopted children. He passed away in 2022.

Please share which of these talented performers made the biggest impact on you in the comments.