Born in 1937 in Brighton, Alabama, he is an accomplished American actor with a career spanning several decades. He made a notable impact with his role as Chief Phillips in the 1979 classic "Apocalypse Now." Over the years, he has appeared in numerous films and television series, showcasing his versatile talent. His performances in "Malcolm X" and "Ali" further solidified his reputation. A graduate of Columbia University, he has also contributed to theatre, enriching the arts with his dynamic presence.