Clarence Williams III

Born:21. srpna 1939

Place of Birth:New York City, New York, USA

Died:4. června 2021

Known For:Acting

Biography

Clarence Williams III, a legendary American actor, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry with his remarkable talent and versatile performances. Born on August 21, 1939, he was destined for a life in the spotlight, being the son of a professional musician and the grandson of jazz and blues icons. Raised by his paternal grandmother, Williams discovered his passion for acting when he stumbled onto a stage in Harlem, sparking a lifelong love affair with the craft.

After serving in the U.S. Army, Williams embarked on a successful acting career that spanned decades. His Broadway debut in The Long Dream marked the beginning of a series of acclaimed stage performances, including a Tony Award-nominated role in Slow Dance on the Killing Ground. Known for his ability to embody complex characters with depth and nuance, Williams captivated audiences with his magnetic presence and undeniable talent.

However, it was his role as the charismatic undercover cop Linc Hayes in the groundbreaking series The Mod Squad that catapulted Williams to fame. As part of a trio of young, hip crime solvers, Williams brought a unique energy and authenticity to the role, becoming a cultural icon of the era. Following the success of The Mod Squad, Williams continued to showcase his versatility in a wide range of genres, from comedy to drama, leaving a lasting impact on each project he touched.

Williams' on-screen presence was equally compelling, with memorable performances in films such as Purple Rain, Deep Cover, and American Gangster. Whether portraying a tormented father, a wise mentor, or a conflicted law enforcement officer, Williams brought a depth of emotion and complexity to every character he portrayed, earning him critical acclaim and adoration from audiences worldwide.

In addition to his film and television work, Williams also made notable appearances on popular shows like Twin Peaks, Hill Street Blues, and Law & Order, further solidifying his status as a respected and versatile actor. His collaborations with renowned filmmakers and actors showcased his range and talent, cementing his legacy as a true powerhouse in the industry.

Throughout his illustrious career, Williams continued to captivate audiences with his magnetic performances, leaving an enduring legacy that transcends generations. His contributions to the world of entertainment will always be remembered, cherished, and celebrated by fans and colleagues alike. Clarence Williams III may have left this world on June 4, 2021, but his spirit lives on through the timeless characters he brought to life on stage and screen.

Images

Filmografie

Herectví

Life

Winston Hancock

1999

Two men in 1930s Mississippi become friends after being sentenced to life in prison together for a crime they did not commit.

Half Baked

Samson Simpson

1998

Three lovable party buds try to bail their friend out of jail. But just when the guys have mastered a plan, everything comes dangerously close to going up in smoke.

The General's Daughter

Colonel George Fowler

1999

When the body of Army Capt. Elisabeth Campbell is found on a Georgia military base, two investigators, Warrant Officers Paul Brenner and Sara Sunhill, are ordered to solve her murder. What they uncover is anything but clear-cut. Unseemly details emerge about Campbell's life, leading to allegations of a possible military coverup of her death and the involvement of her father, Lt. Gen. Joseph Campbell.

Impostor

Secretary of Defense (uncredited)

2001

A top-secret government weapons designer is arrested by a clandestine government organization on suspicion of being a clone created by the hostile alien race wanting to take over Earth.

Deep Cover

Taft

1992

Black police officer Russell Stevens applies for a special anti-drug squad which targets the highest boss of cocaine delivery to LA—the Colombian foreign minister's nephew. Russell works his way up from the bottom undercover, until he reaches the boss.

The Legend of 1900

Jelly Roll Morton

1998

The story of a virtuoso piano player who lives his entire life aboard an ocean liner. Born and raised on the ship, 1900 learned about the outside world through interactions with passengers, never setting foot on land, even for the love of his life. Years later, the ship may be destroyed, and a former band member fears that 1900 may still be aboard, willing to go down with the ship.

Hoodlum

Bub Hewlett

1997

In 1934, the second most lucrative business in New York City was running 'the numbers'. When Madam Queen—the powerful woman who runs the scam in Harlem—is arrested, Ellsworth 'Bumpy' Johnson takes over the business and must resist an invasion from a merciless mobster.

Purple Rain

Father

1984

A victim of his own anger, the Kid is a Minneapolis musician on the rise with his band, the Revolution, escaping a tumultuous home life through music. While trying to avoid making the same mistakes as his truculent father, the Kid navigates the club scene and a rocky relationship with a captivating singer, Apollonia. But another musician, Morris, looks to steal the Kid's spotlight -- and his girl.

Tales from the Hood

Mr. Simms (segment "Welcome to My Mortuary")

1995

A strange mortician tells four horrific tales to three drug dealers that he traps in their local funeral parlor.

Sugar Hill

Arthur Romello "A.R." Skuggs

1994

In the Harlem neighborhood of New York City, the Mafia steps in when a drug dealer quits his partner brother to lead a straight life with his girlfriend.

I'm Gonna Git You Sucka

Kalinga

1988

Jack Spade returns from the army in his old ghetto neighbourhood when his brother, June Bug, dies. Jack declares war on Mr. Big, powerful local crimelord. His army is led by John Slade, his childhood idol who used to fight bad guys in the 70s.