Clifton Powell: A Look At The Remarkable Career Of A Beloved Actor
When you think about the faces that make a movie truly memorable, there are some performers who just stick with you. They might not always be the main character, but their presence, their delivery, and their sheer talent leave a lasting mark. One such individual, and a truly captivating presence on screen, is Clifton Powell. His work has, you know, touched so many different stories and brought a lot of heart to them.
He's an American actor, born March 16, 1956, and he has really made a name for himself by taking on supporting roles. These parts, in a way, often become the very fabric of the films they are in. You see him, and you just know you're in for a treat, as a matter of fact.
Clifton Powell is, in some respects, a familiar face from many acclaimed films, including the powerful biographical drama *Ray* from 2004. For his work in that film, he actually received an NAACP Image Award, which is a pretty big deal. He's also known for other significant movies like *Selma Lord Selma*, *Dead Presidents*, and *Menace II Society*. He is, arguably, a true master of his craft, bringing a unique energy to every project.
Table of Contents
- Biography and Early Life
- Personal Details and Bio Data
- A Career of Memorable Roles
- Beyond the Screen: Producer and More
- Uncovering Intriguing Facts About Clifton Powell
- Common Questions About Clifton Powell
- A Lasting Legacy
Biography and Early Life
Clifton Powell came into the world on March 16, 1956, in Washington, D.C. This is, you know, where his story truly begins. He would later move on to higher education, showing an early dedication to his craft and personal growth. It's really interesting to think about how much preparation goes into a career like his, so early on.
He is, as a matter of fact, a graduate of Emerson College, a well-known institution located in Boston, Massachusetts. This background in formal training certainly seems to have helped shape his skills and approach to acting. It's pretty clear that he took his studies seriously, and that foundation has served him well over the years, you know.
This early commitment to learning and refining his abilities is, in some respects, a testament to his dedication. It’s not just about natural talent; it’s also about putting in the work. His journey from Washington, D.C., to a respected college in Boston, and then into the bright lights of Hollywood, is, you know, a pretty inspiring path for anyone looking to make their mark.
Personal Details and Bio Data
Detail | Information |
---|---|
Full Name | Clifton Powell |
Born | March 16, 1956 |
Birthplace | Washington, D.C., USA |
Occupation | Actor, Producer, Comedian |
Education | Emerson College, Boston, Massachusetts |
Notable Recognition | NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture (for *Ray*) |
Known For Films | *Ray*, *Selma Lord Selma*, *Dead Presidents*, *Menace II Society*, *Next Friday* |
A Career of Memorable Roles
Clifton Powell has, you know, built a truly impressive body of work throughout his career. He is widely recognized for his ability to bring depth and authenticity to a variety of characters, often in supporting capacities. These roles, in a way, are often the ones that truly round out a film and give it a special kind of texture. He just has a knack for it, you know.
He's an actor and producer, and his filmography is quite extensive, covering a wide range of genres. If you explore his complete filmography on sites like Rotten Tomatoes, you'll discover every movie and TV show he has been credited in. It's pretty clear that he's been consistently working and contributing to the world of entertainment for a long time, so.
From intense dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, Powell has, in some respects, shown his incredible range. He is an American comedian and actor, noted for his many remarkable films. These include hits like *Next Friday*, where he showcased his comedic timing, and the grittier, more serious roles in *Menace II Society* and *Dead Presidents*. He just has a way of making each character feel real, you know.
The Impact of Ray
One of his most acclaimed performances, as mentioned earlier, was in the biographical film *Ray*, released in 2004. In this movie, he played the character of Jeff Brown. His portrayal was so compelling that it earned him an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture. That's a pretty big deal, and it really highlights his talent, you know.
The film *Ray* itself was a significant cultural event, bringing the life story of Ray Charles to the big screen with incredible detail. Powell's contribution to this project was, in a way, crucial in making the narrative feel complete and authentic. His ability to embody the character of Jeff Brown added a lot of richness to the story, so.
This award-winning role is, arguably, a highlight in his career, showcasing his dramatic chops and his ability to hold his own alongside lead actors. It really solidified his place as a respected and sought-after talent in Hollywood. He truly delivered a memorable performance there, you know.
From Drama to Comedy and Beyond
While he's very well-known for his parts in crime films and urban comedies, Clifton Powell is, as a matter of fact, a truly versatile performer. He has displayed his acting skills far beyond these specific genres. This versatility is, in some respects, what makes his career so fascinating to follow. He doesn't just stick to one type of role, you see.
A notable example of his broad range is his portrayal of Martin Luther King, Jr. This role, in a way, shows his ability to tackle incredibly significant and historical figures, bringing them to life with respect and depth. It's a testament to his acting abilities that he can move from a comedic character in *Next Friday* to a historical icon, you know.
He's also been involved in action-adventure games, like *Grand Theft Auto*, showing another facet of his work. This really proves that he's not limited to just one medium or type of character. His career is, in a way, a tapestry of different experiences and roles, each one adding to his remarkable legacy, so.
Beyond the Screen: Producer and More
Clifton Powell is not just an actor; he's also a producer. This means he's involved in the creative process behind the scenes, helping to bring stories to life from a different perspective. It's pretty cool to see someone so dedicated to the craft on multiple levels, you know.
His work as a producer shows a deeper commitment to filmmaking and storytelling. It means he's not just performing in front of the camera, but also helping to shape the projects from their very beginnings. This kind of involvement is, arguably, a sign of a true film professional, so.
This dual role as both an actor and a producer highlights his comprehensive understanding of the entertainment industry. He's clearly someone who is passionate about every aspect of bringing stories to the audience. It's, you know, a pretty impressive feat to juggle both these demanding roles successfully.
Uncovering Intriguing Facts About Clifton Powell
There are, apparently, 14 intriguing facts about the talented and versatile actor, Clifton Powell, that offer a deeper look into his life and career. Getting to know this Hollywood star like never before involves exploring details beyond his on-screen performances. It's always fun to learn the little things about people you admire, you know.
These facts cover a range of topics, from his early life to his notable roles, giving a more complete picture of the person behind the characters. For instance, knowing his birthday, March 16, 1956, helps to place his career within a timeline. It's, you know, a little piece of personal information that connects you to him.
Other interesting tidbits include what he might have done before fame, his family life, and various fun trivia facts. There are also details about his popularity rankings, which can give a sense of how widely recognized he is. These bits of information really help to round out the picture of a public figure, so.
Learning about these aspects gives fans a chance to feel a bit closer to him and appreciate his journey even more. It's, you know, like getting a peek behind the curtain. Discovering these personal insights can make his performances even more meaningful, as a matter of fact.
Common Questions About Clifton Powell
What are some of Clifton Powell's most famous movies?
Clifton Powell is widely recognized for his roles in several memorable films. He gained significant acclaim for his portrayal of Jeff Brown in the biographical film *Ray* (2004), which earned him an NAACP Image Award. He's also very well-known for his parts in *Menace II Society*, a powerful drama, and *Dead Presidents*. Additionally, his comedic timing shone through in *Next Friday*, and he also appeared in *Selma Lord Selma*. These are, you know, some of the key films that really highlight his diverse acting abilities, so.
When was Clifton Powell born?
Clifton Powell was born on March 16, 1956. This makes him, as of early 2024, 67 years old. Knowing his birthdate helps to understand the span of his long and active career in Hollywood. It's pretty neat to see how much he's accomplished over the years, you know, since then.
Is Clifton Powell just an actor, or does he do other things?
Clifton Powell is, in fact, more than just an actor. He is also a producer, which means he's involved in the creation and development of films from behind the scenes. Furthermore, he is known as an American comedian, showcasing his talent for humor in various roles. This versatility really shows his deep engagement with the entertainment industry, you know. Learn more about Clifton Powell on our site, and you can also check out this page for more details about actors and producers.
A Lasting Legacy
Clifton Powell's career is, in some respects, a true testament to the power of consistent, dedicated performance in supporting roles. He has consistently delivered memorable characters that enhance the overall quality of the films he's in. It's pretty clear he's a vital part of many beloved movies, so.
His ability to move between intense drama and lighthearted comedy, and even to portray historical figures, truly sets him apart. He's not just an actor; he's a storyteller who brings a unique perspective to every part he plays. This versatility is, arguably, one of his greatest strengths, you know.
As we look at his extensive filmography and the impact of his work, it's clear that Clifton Powell has carved out a significant place in American cinema. He continues to be a respected and celebrated figure in the industry, and his contributions will, you know, be remembered for a long time to come. You can explore more about his work on reputable film databases, for example, like IMDb.

Clifton Powell – Movies, Bio and Lists on MUBI

Pictures of Clifton Powell

Pictures of Clifton Powell