Ben Guillory, born Bennet Guillory on November 7, 1949, in the vibrant city of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a highly respected and accomplished individual who has made a significant impact in the world of entertainment.
Born and raised in the vibrant city of San Francisco, California, Guillory embarked on a journey that would shape his future and impact the world of theatre. In the year 1974, he co-founded the Robey Theatre Company, a pioneering endeavour that would become a beacon of artistic expression, alongside the talented actor Danny Glover. This esteemed institution was established in the city of Los Angeles, and was lovingly dedicated to the memory of the legendary Paul Robeson, a man whose life and work served as a constant source of inspiration for Guillory. As the artistic director of the company, Guillory has dedicated himself to nurturing and showcasing the talents of countless actors, writers, and directors, leaving an indelible mark on the world of theatre.
Noted thespian, Guillory, showcased his remarkable acting prowess in the pivotal role of Wining Boy in the theatrical production of "The Piano Lesson" at the esteemed Hayworth Theatre in Los Angeles, captivating audiences with his nuanced portrayal of the character.
Renowned for his impressive range and versatility, Guillory has consistently been in high demand as a supporting actor across both film and television, boasting an extensive and distinguished career spanning multiple decades. His impressive repertoire of roles has seen him take on a wide variety of characters, captivating audiences in numerous critically acclaimed productions.
On the big screen, Guillory has made significant contributions to some of the most iconic and influential films of all time, including the esteemed and Oscar-winning masterpiece, The Color Purple, released in 1985. This groundbreaking drama, directed by Steven Spielberg and based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker, told the powerful and poignant story of the lives of African-American women in the rural South during the early 20th century.
In addition to his impressive work in film, Guillory has also made a significant impact on the small screen, with a notable appearance in the biographical TV film, The Tuskegee Airmen, released in 1995. This highly acclaimed and historically significant production, directed by Robert Mark Kamen, told the inspiring true story of the first African-American pilots to serve in the United States Armed Forces during World War II.
Noted actor Guillory has made a significant impact in the world of television, with a plethora of guest appearances on popular shows. His impressive resume boasts notable roles on iconic series such as Dynasty, which premiered in 1981, and The Jeffersons, a classic sitcom that first aired in 1975.
Guillory's impressive television credits also include appearances on the popular military drama JAG, which debuted in 1995. As his career continues to flourish, Guillory is set to take on a new role in the upcoming film The Harimaya Bridge, which is currently in post-production and expected to be released in May 2009.
