African-American Actors with Military Backgrounds

Many African American actors began their careers in the military before finding fame in the entertainment industry. These men served in different branches of the armed forces where they developed the discipline and character that would later define their screen presence. Their experiences in the military often provided the life perspective needed to portray complex and authoritative figures in film and television. From the Air Force to the Marine Corps these veterans have left a lasting impact on both national service and popular culture. This article highlights several notable performers who served their country before entering the spotlight.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman joined the United States Air Force in 1955 after turning down a drama scholarship to serve his country. He worked as a radar technician and reached the rank of airman first class during his four years of service. After his time in the military he realized that his true passion was for acting rather than aviation. Freeman eventually moved to Los Angeles and became one of the most respected actors in cinema history. He is widely recognized for his performances in films like ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ and ‘Driving Miss Daisy’.

James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones was recruited into the United States Army during the Korean War and completed the Basic Officers Course. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant and helped establish a cold weather training command in the mountains of Colorado. Jones rose to the rank of first lieutenant before deciding to pursue his dreams of performing on stage. His deep and authoritative voice became one of the most recognizable in Hollywood history. He is famous for providing the voice of Darth Vader in ‘Star Wars’ and Mufasa in ‘The Lion King’.

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier lied about his age to enlist in the United States Army during World War II when he was only sixteen. He served as a physiotherapist in a veteran hospital in New York where he helped rehabilitate wounded soldiers. After nearly a year of service he received an honorable discharge and began his journey toward becoming a legendary performer. Poitier made history as the first African American man to win the Academy Award for Best Actor. His performance in ‘Lilies of the Field’ remains a landmark moment in the history of cinema.

Ice-T

Tracy Lauren Marrow better known as Ice-T enlisted in the United States Army to provide financial stability for his young family. He served four years in the 25th Infantry Division and was stationed in Hawaii during his enlistment. The discipline he learned in the military helped him navigate the transition from music to a successful acting career. He has starred as Odafin Tutuola in the long running television drama ‘Law and Order Special Victims Unit’ for over two decades. His military background provided the foundation for many of the tough characters he portrays on screen.

Sinbad

David Adkins who is known professionally as Sinbad served in the United States Air Force as a boom operator. During his time in the military he was stationed at Wichita Air Force Base where he worked on refueling aircraft. He discovered his talent for comedy by performing for his fellow service members during talent shows. After leaving the Air Force he pursued a career in stand up comedy and eventually landed his own sitcom. He became a staple of 1990s entertainment with roles in ‘A Different World’ and the film ‘Jingle All the Way’.

Montel Williams

Montel Williams began his military service by enlisting in the United States Marine Corps in 1974. He later transitioned to the United States Navy and became the first African American enlisted Marine to graduate from the Naval Academy. Williams served as a cryptologic officer and specialized in naval intelligence during his twenty two years of service. He retired with the rank of lieutenant commander before starting a successful career as a talk show host and actor. He has appeared in television dramas such as ‘JAG’ and ‘Touched by an Angel’.

Mr. T

Laurence Tureaud known to fans as Mr. T served in the United States Army as a member of the Military Police Corps. He was recognized as the top trainee in his cycle and was promoted to squad leader during his service. Following his honorable discharge he worked as a high profile bodyguard before being discovered by film producers. He achieved international fame for his role as BA Baracus in the popular series ‘The A Team’. His military persona and distinctive style made him one of the most iconic figures of the 1980s.

Sherman Hemsley

Sherman Hemsley served in the United States Air Force for four years during the late 1950s. He was stationed in Japan and Korea and continued to work for the postal service after his enlistment ended. While working as a clerk he took acting classes at night to prepare for a career in the performing arts. He eventually landed the role of George Jefferson on ‘All in the Family’ which led to the successful spin off ‘The Jeffersons’. His comedic energy and memorable performances earned him a permanent place in television history.

Robert Guillaume

Robert Guillaume served in the United States Army before pursuing a career in musical theater and television. His military experience helped him develop the discipline needed to master complex roles on Broadway and on screen. He is best known for his portrayal of the character Benson DuBois in the sitcom ‘Soap’. This role led to his own spin off series titled ‘Benson’ which earned him multiple Emmy Awards. He also provided the memorable voice for the character Rafiki in the animated film ‘The Lion King’.

Ossie Davis

Ossie Davis enlisted in the United States Army during World War II and served in the Medical Corps. He was stationed in Liberia as a surgical technician and spent his free time writing plays for his fellow soldiers. His service in the military and his experiences with racial segregation influenced his lifelong commitment to civil rights. Davis enjoyed a prolific career in theater and film with notable roles in ‘Do the Right Thing’ and ‘The Hill’. He remained a respected figure in the African American community as both an artist and an activist.

Woody Strode

Woody Strode served in the United States Army Air Force during World War II and played for the military football team. He was a pioneer who helped break the color barrier in professional football before transitioning to a career in acting. Strode became a well known figure in Western films and frequently collaborated with director John Ford. He is remembered for his powerful performance in the title role of the film ‘Sergeant Rutledge’. His impressive physique and dignified screen presence made him a standout performer in Hollywood.

Moses Gunn

Moses Gunn served in the United States Army during the Korean War prior to establishing himself as a talented actor. He was a co founder of the Negro Ensemble Company which provided a platform for many Black actors and playwrights. Gunn appeared in many successful films and television projects including ‘Shaft’ and the miniseries ‘Roots’. He received critical acclaim for his stage work and was nominated for several prestigious awards throughout his career. His military background contributed to the focus and professionalism he displayed in every role.

Greg Morris

Greg Morris served in the United States Army and was part of the special services division during his enlistment. After completing his service he began a successful acting career that spanned several decades. He is most famous for playing the role of Barney Collier in the original ‘Mission Impossible’ television series. His character was one of the first Black electronics experts to be featured as a regular on a major network show. Morris also had a recurring role in the series ‘Vega$’ and appeared in numerous guest spots on other programs.

Richard Pryor

Richard Pryor served in the United States Army from 1958 to 1960 and was stationed in West Germany. His time in the military was marked by challenges and racial tensions that later became subjects in his stand up comedy. After his discharge he moved to New York City and began performing in small clubs. He became one of the most influential comedians in history and starred in films like ‘Stir Crazy’ and ‘Silver Streak’. His raw and honest storytelling changed the way comedy was performed in America.

Sammy Davis Jr.

Sammy Davis Jr. was drafted into the United States Army during World War II and served in an integrated entertainment unit. He faced significant prejudice during his service but used his talents to bridge the gap between soldiers. After the war he became a member of the Rat Pack and a major star in music and film. He appeared in classic movies such as ‘Ocean’s 11’ and ‘Robin and the 7 Hoods’. His versatility as a singer and actor made him a beloved entertainer for many generations.

Harry Belafonte

Harry Belafonte served in the United States Navy during World War II as a munitions loader at a naval base. After his service he utilized the benefits of the GI Bill to study acting in New York City. He became a global sensation with his calypso music and a prominent actor in Hollywood. Belafonte starred in influential films like ‘Carmen Jones’ and ‘Island in the Sun’ while fighting for social justice. His military service was an early chapter in a life dedicated to both art and humanitarian efforts.

Ernie Hudson

Ernie Hudson served in the United States Marine Corps after graduating from high school in the mid 1960s. After completing his enlistment he moved to Detroit and began working in the theater while pursuing an education. He is best known for his role as Winston Zeddemore in the popular ‘Ghostbusters’ franchise. Hudson has enjoyed a long career with roles in films like ‘The Crow’ and the television series ‘Oz’. His professional approach and reliable performances have made him a respected veteran of the entertainment industry.

James Avery

James Avery served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War and was stationed in various locations overseas. After his honorable discharge he moved to California to pursue a career in writing and acting. He is most famous for playing the role of Judge Philip Banks on the sitcom ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel Air’. Avery also had a prolific career as a voice actor and provided the voice for Shredder in ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’. His military experience helped him portray characters with a sense of authority and wisdom.

Beau Billingslea

Beau Billingslea served as a captain in the United States Army Judge Advocate General Corps after graduating from law school. He worked as a legal officer before deciding to focus on his career as a professional actor. Billingslea is recognized for his live action roles in shows like ‘The West Wing’ and his extensive work in anime. He is particularly well known for voicing the character Jet Black in the series ‘Cowboy Bebop’. His background in military law gave him a unique perspective on the roles he chose to play.

Jim Brown

Jim Brown served in the United States Army Reserve as a second lieutenant during the peak of his athletic career. He was a legendary football player who successfully transitioned into a career as an action movie star. Brown appeared in major films such as ‘The Dirty Dozen’ and ‘Ice Station Zebra’. He was known for his physical strength and for being a pioneer for African American men in leading film roles. His disciplined nature and strong presence left a lasting legacy in both sports and cinema.

Nipsey Russell

Nipsey Russell served as a captain in the United States Army during World War II and was stationed in Europe. After returning to civilian life he became a popular comedian and television personality. He was known for his clever poetry and frequent appearances on variety and game shows. Russell also appeared in several films including the musical ‘The Wiz’ where he played the Tin Man. His military leadership skills and quick wit made him a favorite among audiences for many years.

Flip Wilson

Flip Wilson joined the United States Air Force when he was only sixteen years old to improve his life circumstances. During his service he was encouraged by his superiors to perform comedy for his fellow airmen. This experience helped him develop the characters and routines that would later make him famous. He eventually became the first African American man to host a successful variety show on a major network. Wilson also appeared in films like ‘Uptown Saturday Night’ and ‘The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh’.

John Amos

John Amos served in the United States Army National Guard and worked in law enforcement before becoming an actor. He played professional football briefly before finding success on the stage and on television. Amos is widely recognized for his roles in ‘Good Times’ and the groundbreaking miniseries ‘Roots’. He also had a memorable role as the manager of a fast food restaurant in the film ‘Coming to America’. His military and police background often informed the strong and fatherly characters he portrayed.

Isaiah Washington

Isaiah Washington served in the United States Air Force for four years prior to his career in the entertainment industry. He used the discipline and focus he learned in the military to excel in his acting studies. Washington gained widespread fame for his portrayal of Dr. Preston Burke on the medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. He has also collaborated with director Spike Lee on several film projects throughout his career. His military background is often cited as the source of the intensity he brings to his dramatic performances.

Demond Wilson

Demond Wilson served in the United States Army as an infantryman during the Vietnam War. After his tour of duty he returned home and began working as a professional actor in television and theater. He is best remembered for his role as Lamont Sanford in the classic comedy series ‘Sanford and Son’. Wilson later dedicated much of his life to his work as a minister while still making occasional acting appearances. His real life experiences in the military provided a grounding influence on his long career.

Charlie Murphy

Charlie Murphy served in the United States Navy for six years as a boiler technician during the early 1980s. He was stationed on a ship and spent time in several different countries during his enlistment. After leaving the Navy he became a successful writer and comedian known for his storytelling abilities. He gained immense popularity for his appearances on ‘Chappelle’s Show’ and his roles in various comedy films. His military background gave him a unique outlook that he often incorporated into his comedic work.

Bill Cosby

Bill Cosby served in the United States Navy as a hospital corpsman during the 1950s. He worked at the Marine Corps Base Quantico and at the Bethesda Naval Hospital where he assisted with physical therapy. Cosby also participated in track and field for the Navy and was an accomplished athlete during his service. After his honorable discharge he used his military benefits to pursue a college education and a career in comedy. He became one of the most famous figures in television history despite later controversies.

MC Hammer

Stanley Burrell who is known to the world as MC Hammer served in the United States Navy for three years. He worked as a storekeeper and credits his time in the military with teaching him the discipline required for success. After his service he became a global music icon and eventually transitioned into acting in films and television. He appeared in various projects and even had his own animated series for a period of time. His military training helped him manage the complexities of his multi faceted career in entertainment.

Nate Dogg

Nathaniel Hale known as Nate Dogg enlisted in the United States Marine Corps after finishing high school. He served three years as an ammunition specialist and spent time stationed in Okinawa. After his discharge he became a legendary figure in the music industry and made several appearances in film. He acted in the comedy movie ‘Head of State’ and contributed to many movie soundtracks. His military service was a significant part of his life before he became a world famous entertainer.

Shaggy

Orville Burrell who performs under the name Shaggy served in the United States Marine Corps during the Gulf War. He was a member of a field artillery battery and saw active service during Operation Desert Storm. Shaggy began to develop his musical style while he was still serving in the military. He eventually achieved massive success as a recording artist and also pursued acting roles in films like ‘Blast’. He has remained supportive of the military throughout his career and frequently performs for the troops.

Please share your thoughts on these talented actors and their service in the comments.