Geoffrey Holder

Date of Birth: August 1, 1930

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: October 5, 2014

Biography

Geoffrey Holder was a multi-talented Trinidadian-American actor, dancer, choreographer, singer, painter, and voice-over artist. Born in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Geoffrey was the youngest of four children. He first gained fame as a dancer and choreographer, performing with his brother Boscoe Holder’s dance company. Geoffrey moved to the United States in the early 1950s, where he quickly established himself in the arts scene. Holder’s towering height, deep voice, and charismatic presence made him a standout performer on both stage and screen. He is perhaps best known for his role as Baron Samedi in the James Bond film “Live and Let Die” (1973) and as Punjab in the film adaptation of “Annie” (1982). Holder’s talents extended beyond acting; he won two Tony Awards in 1975 for his direction and costume design of the Broadway musical “The Wiz.” Throughout his career, Holder’s work was characterized by a unique blend of Caribbean culture and modern art, making him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. He was married to actress Carmen de Lavallade, with whom he had a son, Leo Holder.

5 Interesting Facts about Geoffrey Holder

1. Geoffrey Holder was a prolific painter and had several exhibitions of his artwork.

2. He was the first black man to win the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical for “The Wiz.”

3. Holder was known for his iconic role as the 7UP “Uncola” man in a series of commercials during the 1970s and 1980s.

4. He voiced Ray, the sun god, in the animated film “Bear in the Big Blue House.”

5. Geoffrey Holder was also an accomplished ballet dancer and choreographer, performing with the Metropolitan Opera Ballet among other prestigious companies.