Errol John was an American actor and playwright who is best known for his roles in “A Man from the Sun,” “The Nun’s Story,” and “Moon on a Rainbow Shawl.”
Personal and Family Life
Errol John was born on December 20, 1924, in Port of Spain, Trinidad. He began his career in journalism and art before moving to theater. He co-founded the Whitehall Players in 1946 with Errol Hill, which marked the beginning of his journey in the performing arts. John later moved to Britain in 1950 to pursue acting in stage productions.
Career
John’s career took off when he was cast in “A Man from the Sun” for the BBC in 1956. His notable play, “Moon on a Rainbow Shawl,” won the Observer Drama Competition in 1957 and was adapted for both radio and stage. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, he appeared in various films and television shows but often faced challenges in achieving significant roles. John expressed frustration in his later years about the limited opportunities in the industry.
Death and Legacy
Errol John passed away on July 10, 1988, at his home in London. His contributions to theater and film, particularly as a playwright and actor, are remembered. Despite facing obstacles in his career, John’s work continues to be acknowledged in various adaptations of his plays.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| PT 109 | 1963-06-26 | Benjamin Kevu |
| Assault on a Queen | 1966-06-15 | Linc Langley |
| Simba | 1955-01-07 | African Inspector |
| Guns at Batasi | 1964-10-30 | Boniface |
| The Sins of Rachel Cade | 1961-04-02 | Kulu |
| The Nun’s Story | 1959-06-18 | Illunga |
| A Man from the Sun | 1956-11-08 | Cleve Lawrence |
| To Keep Our Way of Life | 1959-03-27 | Mr. Freitas |
| The Last Days of Patton | 1986-12-15 | Sgt. 1st Class George Meeks |
| Buck and the Preacher | 1972-03-17 | Joshua |
| Sheena | 1984-08-17 | Bolu |
| Man in the Middle | 1964-01-27 | Sgt. Jackson |
| Rainbow City | 1967-07-05 | John Steele |
| Interpol Calling | 1959-09-13 | Sergeant Hamid |