Born in 1927 in New York City, he became a prominent figure in film and theater. Rising to fame with his powerful performance as Tom Robinson in "To Kill a Mockingbird" (1962), he captivated audiences with his emotional depth and commanding presence. His career spanned over five decades, with notable roles in "Carmen Jones" (1954) and "Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home" (1986). A versatile actor, he also lent his voice to various animated series. He passed away in 2005, leaving a lasting legacy in the arts.