William Horace Marshall (August 19, 1924 – June 11, 2003) was an American actor, director and opera singer. He played the role of Prince Mamuwalde in the 1972 blaxploitation classic Blacula and its sequel Scream Blacula Scream a year later. He was 6‘5” (1.96 m) tall and was known for his bass voice.
Biography[]
Born on August 19, 1924, in Gary, Indiana, Marshall's early life was marked by a passion for the arts. After serving in the United States Army during World War II, he pursued his love for acting, attending the Actors Studio in New York. He honed his craft on Broadway, making his debut in the 1951 production of "Deep Are the Roots," which garnered critical acclaim.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Marshall built a reputation as a versatile actor, appearing in various films and television shows. He portrayed diverse characters, showcasing his talent and range. Notable film roles include "Something of Value" (1957) and "To Trap a Spy" (1964). On television, Marshall graced the screen with appearances in popular series like "The Twilight Zone," "Perry Mason," and "Star Trek."
However, it was in the 1970s that William Marshall achieved iconic status with his portrayal of the charismatic and powerful African prince, Mamuwalde, in the blaxploitation horror film "Blacula" (1972). The film, which blended the horror genre with elements of African American culture, became a cult classic. Marshall's dignified performance and imposing presence contributed significantly to the film's success.
Following the success of "Blacula," Marshall continued to leave his mark in various genres. His deep voice and authoritative demeanor made him a sought-after narrator for documentaries and animated series. One notable role was portraying the role of "The King of Cartoons" in the children's series "Pee-wee's Playhouse."
In addition to his acting career, Marshall was an accomplished director and producer. He directed the documentary "The Making of the Black Brigadoon" (1975) and produced the acclaimed Broadway play "The River Niger" (1972), which earned a Tony Award nomination.
Later in his career, Marshall remained active in both film and television. He continued to appear in popular shows like "The Jeffersons," "Hill Street Blues," and "The Cosby Show." His last film role was in the horror film "Abby" (1974), a unique take on "The Exorcist."
William Horace Marshall's contributions to the entertainment industry extended beyond his acting talents. He was a trailblazer, breaking barriers for African American actors and leaving an enduring legacy. Marshall passed away on June 11, 2003, but his body of work and the impact he had on the industry continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow artists alike.
Awards[]
In 1974, Marshall won two local Emmys for producing and performing in a PBS production, As Adam Early in the Morning, a theatre piece originally performed on stage.
Filmography[]
- Lydia Bailey (1952) – King Dick
- Demetrius and the Gladiators (1954) – Glycon
- Something of Value (1957) – Leader – Intellectual in Suit
- Sabu and the Magic Ring (1957) – Ubal, the genie
- La fille de feu (1958) – Stork
- The Big Pride (1961) – Sutlej
- Piedra de toque (1963) – African Missionary (uncredited)
- The Alfred Hitchcock Hour (1964) (Season 2 Episode 17: "The Jar") - Jahdoo
- To Trap a Spy (1964) – Sekue Ashumen
- The Hell with Heroes (1968) – Al Poland
- The Boston Strangler (1968) – Atty. Gen. Edward W. Brooke
- Skullduggery (1970) – Attorney General
- The Mask of Sheba (1970) – Captain Condor Sekallie
- Zig Zag (1970) – Morris Bronson
- Honky (1971) – Dr. Craig Smith
- Blacula (1972) – Blacula / Mamuwalde
- Scream Blacula Scream (1973) – Blacula / Mamuwalde
- Abby (1974) – Bishop Garnet Williams
- Twilight's Last Gleaming (1977) – William Klinger – Attorney General
- The Great Skycopter Rescue (1980) – Mr. Jason
- The Tragedy of Othello (1981) – Othello
- Vasectomy: A Delicate Matter (1986) – Dr. Dean
- Amazon Women on the Moon (1987) – Pirate Captain (segment "Video Pirates")
- Maverick (1994) – Riverboat Poker Player #10
- Sorceress (1995) – John Geiger
- Dinosaur Valley Girls (1996) – Dr. Benjamin Michaels