Bill Cobbs, Star of ‘Night at the Museum’ and ‘The Bodyguard,’ Passes Away at 90
Bill Cobbs, a renowned actor best known for his roles in “Night at the Museum” and “Sunshine State,” has passed away at the age of 90.
Cobbs, a Cleveland native, had an illustrious career, including memorable performances such as Whitney Houston’s manager in the 1992 film “The Bodyguard” and the Master Tinker in Sam Raimi’s 2013 film “Oz the Great and Powerful.”
His impressive filmography also includes portraying the older brother of Medgar Evers in Rob Reiner’s “Ghosts of Mississippi” and playing a jazz pianist in Tom Hanks’ “That Thing You Do!” both released in 1996.
Cobbs’s death, occurring just days after his 90th birthday, was confirmed by his publicist, Chuck I. Jones. Jones informed the Hollywood Reporter that Cobbs died of natural causes at his Riverside home.
Beyond his film career, Cobbs had a significant presence on television. He appeared as Dr. Emory Erickson, the inventor of the Transporter, on “Star Trek: Enterprise,” and played memorable roles such as The Dutchman on “The Slap Maxwell Story,” the bus driver Tony on “The Drew Carey Show,” and the father of the titular character on “The Gregory Hines Show.”
One of his notable roles was Moses, a mystical man with the ability to stop time, in the Coen Brothers’ 1994 film “The Hudsucker Proxy.” He also captured the hearts of younger audiences as Reginald, the security guard nearing retirement, in the original “Night at the Museum” (2006) and its 2014 sequel.
Wilbert Francisco Cobbs, born in June 1934, graduated from East Tech High School in Cleveland and subsequently joined the US Air Force, serving for eight years. During his military service, he began exploring stand-up comedy. Before achieving fame as an actor, Cobbs worked for IBM and sold cars. His stage debut came in 1969.
Cobbs’ first significant film appearance was in the 1974 movie “The Taking of Pelham One Two Three,” where he appeared on a subway platform. Reflecting on the role in 2013, he recalled, “I came back home to see my mom and dad, and all our friends and neighbors went to see the movie, and everyone was waiting for my appearance. I walk up to a policeman in the subway and say, ‘Hey, man. What’s goin’ on?'”
Our thoughts are with Cobbs’ family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
Article Source: Vt
