 |
Ossie DavisAfrican-American film actor, director, poet, playwright, writer and social activist
Date of Birth: 18.12.1917
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Acting Career
- Directing and Playwriting
- Later Career and Death
- Marriage and Personal Life
Early Life and Education
Ossie Davis, born Rayford Chatman Davis on December 18, 1917, in Cogdell, Georgia, was the son of engineer Kins Charles Davis and Laura Davis (Cooper). His name "Ossie" originated from a clerical error when his mother's initials "R.C." were misread. His parents encouraged him to pursue higher education at Howard University, but he dropped out in 1939 to pursue acting in New York City. He later enrolled at Columbia University to complete his studies.
Acting Career
Davis' acting career spanned seven decades, beginning with a debut in Rose McClendon's "Players" in Harlem in 1939. His first film appearance was in Sidney Poitier's "No Way Out" in 1950. He also voiced Anansi the Spider in the popular children's show "Sesame Street."
Despite his talent, Davis faced the limited roles typically offered to African American actors, such as servants and butlers. Inspired by Poitier, he sought out more unconventional parts. Even when playing stereotypical roles, he imbued his characters with dignity.
Directing and Playwriting
In addition to acting, Davis was a renowned African American director, alongside Melvin Van Peebles and Gordon Parks. His notable plays included "Paul Robeson: All-American," performed widely for young audiences.
Later Career and Death
Davis' career gained prominence in his later years with roles in Spike Lee's films, including "Do The Right Thing," "Jungle Fever," "She Hate Me," and "Get on the Bus." He also had a successful career in commercials and as a narrator for the CBS sitcom "Evening Shade."
Ossie Davis' final acting role was in an episode of Showtime's "The L Word," which aired posthumously as a tribute to the actor. He passed away in a Miami hotel room on February 4, 2005, due to natural causes. At the time of his death, he was working on a new film project titled "Retirement."
Marriage and Personal Life
In 1948, Davis married actress Ruby Dee. Together, they co-authored the autobiography "With Ossie and Ruby."
