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Bill CobbsAmerican actor
Date of Birth: 16.06.1934
Country:  USA |
Content:
Early Life and Career
Born Wilbert Francisco Cobb on June 16, 1934, in Cleveland, Ohio, Bill Cobb grew up in a modest household. His father worked in construction, while his mother tended to the home and children. Despite the family's financial limitations, Cobb's cousin, James Baskett, found success in film and voice acting, most notably as Uncle Remus in Disney's "Song of the South" (1946).
After graduating from East Tech High School in Cleveland, Cobb served in the USAF for eight years. Upon his return to his hometown in 1936, he briefly worked for IBM and sold cars at Central Chevrolet. A fateful encounter with a buyer led him to perform in a play at Karamu House, a local theater. Inspired, Cobb left for New York City in 1970 at the age of 36 to pursue an acting career.
Film Career
Cobb's IMDB credits trace his screen debut to a minor role in the crime drama "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three" (1974). Despite its brevity, this appearance generated significant buzz in Cobb's hometown. He further solidified his reputation in "The Champ" (1979), portraying Louisiana Slim, a retired boxer attempting to rebuild his life.
Cobb's filmography boasts over 180 projects. Notable performances include Orvis in Martin Scorsese's "The Color of Money" (1986), Bill Devaney in "The Bodyguard" (1992), and Charles Evers in "Ghosts of Mississippi" (1996). He also appeared in "Night at the Museum" (2006) and "Oz the Great and Powerful" (2013).
Television Appearances
In addition to his film work, Cobb made notable appearances in television series. Notable credits include "Ready Set Go!" "Walker, Texas Ranger," and "The Sopranos."
Personal Life
Bill Cobb kept his personal life private. He was married to a woman named Carolyn, with whom he occasionally made public appearances. In interviews, he preferred to focus on his professional life, mentioning only that he occasionally visited his hometown, where his relatives still resided. Cobb stood at 5'11" (1.85 meters).
Death
Bill Cobb passed away peacefully at his home in California on June 25, 2024. He had recently celebrated his 90th birthday. The cause of death remains undisclosed, but his brother, Thomas Cobb, indicated it was natural.
