Ben Vereen

Birth Name:

Benjamin Augustus Middleton

Birth Place:

Miami, Florida, United States

Profession

Actor, Soundtrack

His work with such organizations as the American Red Cross, the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Association and the American Heart Association has earned him numerous humanitarian awards, including an Eleanor Roosevelt Humanitarian Award
Performed in local variety shows in his youth and enrolled in the High School of Performing Arts when he was 14, but had difficulty finding work after graduation and was forced to take odd jobs
His foremost passion is the stage, as he credits it with teaching him discipline, dedication and an appreciation for hard work
Is an accomplished singer and dancer, but also an actor capable of delivering layered, nuanced performances without the theatricals of a musical
In 1989, he started an organization called "Celebrities for a Drug Free America," which raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for drug rehabilitation centers
Is a motivational speaker, covering such topics as overcoming adversity, arts in education, Black history, recovery through physical and occupational therapy and the importance of continuing education

1976Golden Globe - Best Acting Debut in a Motion Picture - Male:Nominated
1977Primetime Emmy - Outstanding Lead Actor for a Single Appearance in a Drama or Comedy Series:Nominated
1983ACE - Actor in a Theatrical or Musical Program:Nominated
1985Golden Globe - Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television:Nominated
1992Primetime Emmy - Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or a Special:Nominated
2007Anniversary AwardWinner
2008Prism Award - Performance in a Drama Series Episode:Winner
2009Image Award - Outstanding Actor in a Television Movie, Mini-Series or Dramatic Special:Nominated

Fast Facts