Geoffrey Holder

Born:August 1, 1930

Place of Birth:Port-of-Spain, Trinidad

Died:October 5, 2014

Known For:Acting

Biography

Geoffrey Holder, born in Port of Spain, Trinidad, was a multifaceted talent known for his towering height, distinctive deep basso voice, and infectious laugh. His presence in the iconic 7 Up "uncola" advertising campaign in the 1970s catapulted him to widespread recognition, becoming a memorable figure in the world of entertainment. Holder's versatility shone through his roles in various films, such as portraying William Shakespeare, "Willy," in the 1967 movie Dr. Dolittle and captivating audiences as Baron Samedi in the 1973 James Bond film, Live and Let Die.

Beyond his on-screen success, Holder's artistic endeavors extended into painting, music composition, and writing, showcasing his boundless creativity. His contributions as a choreographer left a lasting impact, with his dance creations gracing renowned companies like the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and The Dance Theatre of Harlem. Holder's artistic collaborations transcended boundaries, reflecting his passion for storytelling through movement and visual arts.

In the realm of theater, Holder's talent shone brightly, earning him accolades for his performances on both stage and screen. His portrayal of Punjab in the 1982 film adaptation of the musical Annie solidified his status as a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Holder's magnetic presence and unique flair brought depth and richness to each character he inhabited, leaving an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.

Alongside his artistic pursuits, Holder shared a deep connection with dancer Carmen De Lavallade, whom he met during their involvement in Truman Capote's House of Flowers. Their partnership symbolized a harmonious blend of talent and love, enriching both their personal and professional lives. Holder's legacy as a trailblazer in the arts continues to inspire generations of performers, his contributions resonating across various creative disciplines.

Throughout his illustrious career, Geoffrey Holder's impact transcended borders, capturing the hearts of audiences with his unparalleled charisma and artistic vision. His legacy as a pioneering figure in the entertainment industry endures, with his work standing as a testament to the power of creativity and passion. Holder's influence as an actor, choreographer, painter, and author remains eternally woven into the fabric of artistic expression, a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists around the globe.

Images

Filmography

Acting

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Narrator (voice)

2005

A young boy wins a tour through the most magnificent chocolate factory in the world, led by the world's most unusual candy maker.

Live and Let Die

Baron Samedi

1973

James Bond must investigate a mysterious murder case of a British agent in New Orleans. Soon he finds himself up against a gangster boss named Mr. Big.

Annie

Punjab

1982

An orphan in a facility run by the mean Miss Hannigan, Annie believes that her parents left her there by mistake. When a rich man named Oliver "Daddy" Warbucks decides to let an orphan live at his home to promote his image, Annie is selected. While Annie gets accustomed to living in Warbucks' mansion, she still longs to meet her parents. So Warbucks announces a search for them and a reward, which brings out many frauds.

Boomerang

Nelson

1992

Marcus is a successful advertising executive who woos and beds women almost at will. After a company merger he finds that his new boss, the ravishing Jacqueline, is treating him in exactly the same way. Completely traumatised by this, his work goes badly downhill.

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex *But Were Afraid to Ask

Sorcerer

1972

A collection of seven vignettes, which each address a question concerning human sexuality. From aphrodisiacs to sexual perversion to the mystery of the male orgasm, characters like a court jester, a doctor, a queen and a journalist adventure through lab experiments and game shows, all seeking answers to common questions that many would never ask.

Production

Live and Let Die

Choreographer

1973

James Bond must investigate a mysterious murder case of a British agent in New Orleans. Soon he finds himself up against a gangster boss named Mr. Big.