American writer, actor, director, and social activist who was known for his contributions to African American theatre and film and for his passionate support of civil rights and humanitarian causes. He was also noted for his artistic partnership with his wife, Ruby Dee, which was considered one of the theatre and film world's most distinguished.

b. December 18, 1917 (Cogdell, GA, USA)
d. February 4, 2005 (Miami Beach, FL, USA)