Posted on 06/28/2024 8:58:05 AM PDT by Red Badger
The veteran performer appeared in countless TV shows and movies during his career
Bill Cobbs, the prolific and versatile actor known for performances in films such as The Brother From Another Planet, Night at the Museum, and The Bodyguard, has died. He was 90.
A member of Cobbs’ family confirmed his death on Facebook, saying the actor died “peacefully” at his home in California on Tuesday, June 25. “A beloved partner, big brother, uncle, surrogate parent, godfather and friend, Bill recently and happily celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by cherished loved ones,” the statement read. “As a family we are comforted knowing Bill has found peace and eternal rest with his Heavenly Father. We ask for your prayers and encouragement during this time.”
Cobbs came to acting in his thirties, after spending eight years in the Air Force, working for IBM, and even selling cars. As he told Cleveland.com in 2013, it was one of his car customers who got him to try acting when he asked if Cobbs wanted to be in a play. He started appearing in productions at the Karamu House in his hometown of Cleveland, before eventually striking out for New York in 1970.
Cobbs booked his first film role in 1974 — a small, one-line part as “Man on Platform” in the classic thriller, The Taking of Pelham One Two Three. After that, he never really stopped working, with his IMDB page listing 195 credits for both film and TV.
Appeared in a Sopranos episode
Sopranos Wiki;
Reverend James Sr. is a supporting character portrayed by Bill Cobbs. He is the father of Reverend James Jr. and served in World War Two.
He is seen with his son, protesting at Jack Massarone’s construction yard over the lack of jobs being given to African-American workers. Reverend James mentions that he served in World War Two.
Reverend James Sr. passes away at the end of the episode. His son and other family members attend his wake. DiMeo crime family boss Tony Soprano gives his condolences to Reverend James Jr. having briefly met Reverend James Sr. at his home.
Always liked him. Great actor.
Same here. RIP Bill Cobbs.
I think my favorite performance of his was in the Coen Brothers’ film The Hudsucker Proxy. Cobbs played Moses, the clock-keeper. There’s a great scene where he’s explaining the machine of industry, how it keeps going. It’s a great little bit of pro-capitalism, I thought.
He was the preacher in New Jack City. His character shot the drug lord at the end.
He was one of those guys you always recognized, but I didn’t know his name.
He was a good actor.
Liked him in “That Thing That You Do” playing ficticious Jazz great Del Paxton.
The Brother From Another Planet is a very enjoyable sleeper movie.
God Speed.
Ditto, I agree
He was really good in “The Ultimate Gift.” What a heartwarming movie.
Rest in Peace Bill Cobb.
He was also a preacher on several JAG episodes.
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