Robert Guillaume
Actor and singer from 'Benson'

Born
November 30th, 1927
97 years ago
Died
October 24th, 2017
7 years ago — 89 years old
Category
Performers & Entertainers
Country
United States
Links & References
Acclaimed actor and singer, celebrated for role as Benjamin Siegler in the television series 'Benson' and as the voice of Rafiki in Disney's 'The Lion King'. Started career on stage, winning a Tony Award for performance in the musical 'Purlie'. Appeared in numerous television series and films throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Also contributed as a director and producer, showcasing talents beyond acting. Influential in portraying African American characters in a positive light during a time of limited representation.
Starred in the TV series 'Benson'
Voiced Rafiki in 'The Lion King'
Won a Tony Award for 'Purlie'
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