Calvin Lockhart

Calvin Lockhart was an American actor known for his roles in films such as Cotton Comes to Harlem, Uptown Saturday Night, and Coming to America. He was a prominent figure in the “blaxploitation” genre and also made significant contributions to theater in Europe and the U.S.

Personal and Family Life

Calvin Lockhart was born Bert Cooper on October 18, 1934, in Nassau, Bahamas. He moved to New York City as a teenager to study civil engineering but eventually dropped out to pursue acting. He was married to Jenifer Miles from 1974 until his death in 2007 and had three children: Michael, Julien Lockhart Miles, and daughter Shari. After returning to his hometown, he was involved in local theater and directed plays.

Career Highlights

Calvin Lockhart first gained attention in urban films during the 1970s, with standout performances in Cotton Comes to Harlem and Halls of Anger. He was known for playing complex characters and was a groundbreaking actor, being the first black actor to take lead roles with the Royal Shakespeare Company. His career included a mix of film and television, and he appeared in popular series like Dynasty and movies like Predator 2 and Coming to America.

Death and Legacy

Calvin Lockhart passed away on March 29, 2007, in Nassau from complications after a stroke. His family announced plans to create a scholarship fund in his name for Bahamian students interested in acting and filmmaking, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations of artists.

Filmography