Avery Brooks Biography

Fast Facts

• In 1993, he served as the artistic director for the National Black Arts Festival
• Was inducted into the Rutgers University Hall of Distinguished Alumni in 1993
• In 1976, he became the first African American to receive a Masters of Fine Arts degree in acting and directing from Rutgers University
• Quote: "(On his role in "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine") "I will always have fond memories, especially in terms of it giving me a worldwide forum and letting the world see black and brown people doing all types of things without their color being the critical aspect of what or who they are․""
• Quote: "It's the year 2000, but where are the flying cars? I was promised flying cars․ I don't see any flying cars․ Why? Why? Why?"
• Widely recognized for his trademark shaved head and goatee
• Primarily known for his deep, resonant speaking voice
• In 2001, he did voice-over work for IBM commercials
• Is the first African-American actor to portray the captain on "Star Trek․"
• Works with the Smithsonian Institution's Program in Black American Culture