Mykelti Williamson
Personal details
  • Born:
    • Birthday: 1957-03-04
    • Born Place: St. Louis, Missouri, USA
  • Also Known As:

    Michael T. Williamson, Mykel T. Williamson, Mikel T. Williamson

Mykelti Williamson

Mykelti Williamson is an American actor born Michael T. Williamson on March 4, 1957, in St. Louis, Missouri. His first name, Mykelti (pronounced Michael Tee), reportedly means "Spirit/Silent Friend" in the Blackfoot language, referencing his stated Blackfoot ancestry. Raised primarily in Los Angeles, he began performing at age nine, appearing in regional and church productions. He also danced as an alternate member of The Lockers troupe on Soul Train. Williamson studied television and film at Los Angeles City College and later at Gene Evans Motion Picture School in San Jose.His professional acting career began with a guest spot on Starsky & Hutch in 1975. Throughout the 1980s, he became a prolific television actor with recurring roles in series like Bay City Blues, Hill Street Blues, The Bronx Zoo, and Midnight Caller. He also appeared in films such as Wildcats (1986), Miracle Mile (1989), The First Power (1990), and Free Willy (1993).Williamson gained widespread recognition for his poignant portrayal of Benjamin Buford "Bubba" Blue in the 1994 Academy Award-winning film Forrest Gump. Following this breakthrough, he continued to build an impressive filmography, including roles in Waiting to Exhale (1995), Heat (1995), Con Air (1997), and Ali (2001), where he played Don King. His television career also saw notable roles in Boomtown, 24, Justified, and Chicago P.D. He has also branched into directing, with credits on shows like Chicago Med and Sweet Magnolias. Williamson has received nominations and awards for his acting and writing, including the Humanitas Prize.

Person History