Born in Florida in 1949, Brad Davis embarked on a journey to pursue an acting career in Georgia after completing his high school education. Subsequently, he relocated to New York City twice in search of opportunities, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to his craft. By the early 1970s, Davis had established himself in off-Broadway plays while concurrently studying acting at the Academy of Dramatic Arts.
His impressive stage work eventually led to his movie debut and television appearances in notable shows such as Sybil (1976) and the mini-series Roots (1977). Davis's breakthrough role came in 1978 when he played Billy Hayes, a young American imprisoned in Turkey for drug smuggling, in the critically acclaimed film Midnight Express (1978),earning him a Golden Globe award in the process.
In 1982, Davis took on the title role in Querelle (1982),a ruggedly lethal sailor who captivated the hearts of both men and women with his charisma and charm.
However, Davis's personal life was marred by tragedy when he contracted AIDS in 1979, allegedly as a result of his past cocaine addiction. In response to the anti-AIDS hysteria prevalent in Hollywood at the time, Davis chose to keep his illness a secret for several years, continuing to act despite his deteriorating health.
It wasn't until the late 1980s that Davis publicly disclosed his diagnosis and became a vocal AIDS activist, condemning the Hollywood industry and US government for their inaction and neglect towards those suffering from the disease. Tragically, Davis passed away in 1991 at the age of 41.
His widow, Susan Bluestein, has continued his legacy by carrying on his activist work in the fight against AIDS, ensuring that his memory and impact on the world are not forgotten.
