Riverside, California – Beloved character actor Bill Cobbs has passed away at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances on both the big and small screens. His publicist, Chuck I. Jones, confirmed that Cobbs died of natural causes at his home in Riverside on Tuesday night.
Originally from Cleveland, Cobbs was known for his versatility in portraying both comedic and dramatic roles. His career spanned decades and included standout performances in films such as “The Hudsucker Proxy,” “Sunshine State,” and “Night at the Museum.” Cobbs’ talent shone through in a variety of roles, from portraying Whitney Houston’s manager in “The Bodyguard” to the wise coach in “Air Bud.”
On television, Cobbs made his mark with roles such as the sardonic bartender The Dutchman on “The Slap Maxwell Story” and the bus driver Tony on “The Drew Carey Show.” He also appeared in popular shows like “The Gregory Hines Show” and “Star Trek: Enterprise.”
In addition to his on-screen work, Cobbs had a successful stage career, starting in his hometown of Cleveland and later moving to New York to join the Negro Ensemble Company. His contributions to the theater world were just as impactful as his work in film and television.
Born Wilbert Francisco Cobbs on June 16, 1934, in Cleveland, Cobbs discovered his passion for acting later in life after serving in the U.S. Air Force. His journey from stand-up comedy in the military to the stages of Broadway is a testament to his dedication and talent in the performing arts.
Throughout his career, Cobbs worked with acclaimed filmmakers and actors, leaving behind a body of work that will continue to inspire audiences for years to come. His presence on screen and stage will be deeply missed, but his contributions to the entertainment industry will never be forgotten.