Bill Duke

William Henry Duke Jr., more widely known as Bill Duke, is an American actor, director, and producer. Born on February 26, 1943, Duke is known for his physically imposing frame and his work, which primarily falls into the action and crime drama genres. His most notable roles are frequently associated with law enforcement and he is celebrated as a director who has effectively explored and represented the Black American experience. As such, he has been called the 'Godfather of African American Cinema.' Duke's career began in theatre before he made his film debut as aspiring revolutionary Abdullah Mohammed Akbar in the ensemble comedy Car Wash (1976). His work range is expansive, with notable roles in films such as Commando (1985), Predator (1987), American Gigolo (1980), and X-Men: The Last Stand (2006). Duke's directorial debut, The Killing Floor (1984) was highly acclaimed and won the Special Jury Prize at the 1984 Sundance Film Festival. His extensive directorial repertoire includes several television series including Cagney & Lacey, Dallas, and Hill Street Blues. He is also known for directing the film adaptation of Chester Himes' Harlem Detective series, A Rage in Harlem (1991). Bill Duke's presence, both physically and artistically, has left a lasting impact in the cinema world. He is a formidable character actor and a visionary director who has brought meaningful representation of Black American experiences to the screen.