Who Is Ossie Davis? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Ossie Davis was born on December 18, 1917, and he left behind a rich legacy when he passed on February 4, 2005. Known for his incredible contributions to the entertainment industry and his activism, Davis was a powerhouse in both film and theater. His dynamic performances and commitment to civil rights continue to inspire generations.
| Occupation | Stage Actor |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 18, 1917 |
| Age | 87 Years |
| Birth Place | Cogdell, Georgia, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | Georgia |
| Date of death | 4 February, 2005 |
| Died Place | Miami Beach, Florida, U.S. |
Popularity
Ossie Davis's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Ossie Davis stood at approximately 6 feet tall (183 cm) and had a commanding presence on screen. Though his exact weight varied throughout his life due to his active lifestyle and theatrical performances, he was known for maintaining a well-groomed and healthy appearance.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Ossie Davis was married to actress Ruby Dee for over 57 years until his death. Their partnership was not only romantic but also professional, as they often collaborated on various projects. The couple had three children together - Guy, Nora, and Hasna. The love and respect they shared were well-known within the entertainment community, marking a significant chapter in both their personal and professional lives.
For his portrayal of Martin Luther King Sr. in the NBC miniseries King (1978) he was nominated for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series. He was also Emmy-nominated for his roles in Teacher, Teacher (1969), Miss Evers' Boys (1997), and The L Word (2005). He won the Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album with his wife Ruby Dee for Ossie and Ruby (2005).
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Ossie Davis had an estimated net worth of around $2 million. His income sources included acting, directing, writing, and various speaking engagements, reflecting his multifaceted career in the industry. Given the ongoing interest in his work and legacy, it's possible that this figure could have grown through posthumous projects and honorings.
Career, Business and Investments
Ossie Davis had an illustrious career that spanned over five decades. His notable works included films like "Do the Right Thing," "The Stand," and his portrayal of the character, the ghost of Booker T. Washington, in "The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman." He was not only a talented actor but also a visionary director and writer, earning numerous awards for his contributions to the arts. Additionally, Davis was an outspoken activist for civil rights, often using his platform to advocate for racial equality and social justice.
When Davis wanted to pursue a career in acting, he ran into the usual roadblocks that black people suffered at that time as they generally could only portray stereotypical characters such as Stepin Fetchit. Instead, he tried to follow the example of Sidney Poitier and play more distinguished characters.
When he found it necessary to play a Pullman porter or a butler, he played those characters realistically, not as a caricature.
Social Network
As a beloved public figure, Ossie Davis maintained a strong presence in the social scene of Hollywood and beyond. While social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter were not available during his lifetime, Davis's legacy is kept alive through numerous fan pages and tribute accounts that celebrate his life and work. The Ossie Davis Estate continues to manage his intellectual property, ensuring that his contributions are honored and preserved.
Davis started his career in theatre acting with the Ross McClendon Players in the 1940s. He made his Broadway debut acting in the post-World War II play Jeb (1946). He earned a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical nomination for his role in Jamaica (1958).
He wrote and starred as the title character in the satirical farce Purlie Victorious (1961) which was adapted into a 1963 film and 1970 musical.
Education
In terms of education, Ossie Davis attended Columbia University, where he pursued a degree in sociology, reflecting his keen interest in social issues. His time at Columbia not only bolstered his knowledge in academia but also influenced his career trajectory in the performing arts and activism.
Davis's credits as a film director include Cotton Comes to Harlem (1970), Black Girl (1972), and Gordon's War (1973). He was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor for The Scalphunters (1968).
Davis also acted in The Hill (1965), A Man Called Adam (1966), Lets Do It Again (1975), School Daze (1988), Do the Right Thing (1989), Grumpy Old Men (1993), The Client (1994), and Dr. Dolittle (1998).
