Dick Campbell was an American actor who is best known for his work in theater and television. He played a significant role in advocating for African American representation in the arts.
Personal and Family Life
Dick Campbell was born Cornelius Coleridge Campbell on June 27, 1903, in Beaumont, Texas. He was married to Muriel Rahn from 1932 until her death in 1961, and later to Beryl until his own passing. Campbell was deeply committed to his craft and dedicated much of his life to mentoring young Black actors and actresses.
Career and Advocacy
Throughout his career, Campbell was a strong advocate for quality roles for African American performers. In 1955, he organized a television boycott in New York City due to the lack of opportunities for Black actors, highlighting that only one in 200 television roles were played by them at the time. Although he may not be widely recognized today, Campbell significantly impacted the lives of many aspiring actors through his work with The Rose McClendon Players in Harlem and as a member of the Negro Actor’s Guild.
Death and Legacy
Dick Campbell passed away on December 20, 1994, in New York City. Despite his relatively little-known status compared to other Black actors, his legacy lives on through the countless artists he inspired and mentored. His commitment to fighting discrimination and improving representation for African Americans in performing arts remains a vital part of his story.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1939 | What Goes Up | Dick |