Clarice Taylor was an American actress who is best known for her roles in The Cosby Show, Sesame Street, and The Wiz. Born on September 20, 1917, in Buckingham County, Virginia, she became a prominent figure in entertainment for over fifty years.
Personal and Family Life
Clarice Taylor was married to Maxwell Glanville, but the couple later divorced. She had two adopted sons, William and James Thomas, and five grandchildren, who survive her. Throughout her career, she was known for her commitment to the arts and the African-American community.
Career Highlights
She gained fame for her recurring role as Harriet, David’s grandmother, on Sesame Street, and as Bill Cosby’s mother on The Cosby Show. Taylor also portrayed Addaperle, the Good Witch of the North, in the musical The Wiz. Additionally, she had a successful stage career and was a co-founder of Harlem’s American Negro Theater.
Death and Legacy
Clarice Taylor passed away on May 30, 2011, in Englewood, New Jersey, due to heart failure. Her contributions to television and theater left a lasting impact, making her a celebrated figure in the arts. She is remembered for her powerful performances and role in advancing African-American representation in media.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Sommersby | 1993-02-05 | Esther |
| Play Misty for Me | 1971-10-01 | Birdie |
| Purlie | 1981-10-12 | Idella |
| Five on the Black Hand Side | 1973-10-25 | Mrs. Brooks |
| Change of Mind | 1969-10-08 | Rose Landis |
| Wedding Band | 1974-04-24 | Fanny Johnson |
| Such Good Friends | 1971-12-16 | Mrs. McKay |
| The New Girl | 1960-01-01 | Mary’s Mom |
| The Cosby Show: A Look Back | 2002-05-19 | Self / Anna Huxtable (archive footage) |
| Tell Me That You Love Me, Junie Moon | 1970-05-11 | Minnie |
| Smoke | 1995-06-09 | Grandma Ethel |
| Nothing Lasts Forever | 1984-09-06 | Lu |
| Willie Dynamite | 1974-01-23 | Willie’s mother’s friend (uncredited) |
| Due South | 1994-09-22 | Mrs. Chaffey |
| Sanford and Son | 1972-01-14 | |
| Ironside | 1967-03-28 | |
| Spenser: For Hire | 1985-09-20 | |
| The Cosby Show | 1984-09-20 | |
| Lady Blue | 1985-04-15 | |
| Beulah Land | 1980-10-07 | Lovey |