D’Urville Martin was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “Dolemite,” “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” and “Black Caesar.”
Personal and Family Life
D’Urville Martin was born on February 11, 1939, in New York City. He was married to Lillian Ferguson from March 21, 1966, until his death, and they had two children together. He also had a previous marriage to Frances L. Johnson, with whom he had one child.
Career
D’Urville started acting in the 1960s and became a prominent figure in the 1970s blaxploitation film genre. He acted alongside Fred “The Hammer” Williamson in several films, including his notable role as Reverend Rufus. Martin also branched out to directing, notably helming the cult classic “Dolemite.” He made guest appearances in various television shows, including “All in the Family” and “The Monkees.”
Death and Legacy
D’Urville Martin passed away from a heart attack on May 28, 1984, at the age of 45. Despite his struggles with a party lifestyle, he left a lasting impact on the film industry, especially in the blaxploitation genre. His work continues to influence cinema and has garnered appreciation in the years following his death.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Rosemary’s Baby | 1968-06-12 | Diego |
| Black Caesar | 1973-02-07 | Rev. Rufus |
| Boss Nigger | 1975-08-17 | Amos |
| Sheba, Baby | 1975-03-26 | Pilot |
| Watermelon Man | 1970-05-27 | Bus Driver |
| Dolemite | 1975-04-26 | Willie Green |
| The Final Comedown | 1972-05-31 | Billy Joe Ashley |
| Hell Up In Harlem | 1973-12-01 | Reverend Rufus |
| Blind Rage | 1976-10-06 | Willie Black |
| The Big Score | 1983-03-17 | Easy |
| A Time to Sing | 1968-08-15 | Luke Harper |
| Book of Numbers | 1973-04-10 | Billy Bowlegs |
| Hammer | 1972-07-04 | Sonny |
| Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner | 1967-12-11 | Frankie |
| The Legend of Nigger Charley | 1972-03-16 | Toby |
| The Soul of Nigger Charley | 1973-05-15 | Toby |
| Five on the Black Hand Side | 1973-10-25 | Booker T. |
| Black Like Me | 1964-01-01 | |
| Black Hollywood | 1984-11-28 | Self |
| The Bear | 1984-09-28 | Billy |
| The Invaders | 1967-01-10 | Casey |
| The Name of the Game | 1968-09-20 | Carlton |