Ossie Davis

Ossie Davis (1917-2005) was interviewed for two hours plus in New Rochelle, NY.  Mr. Davis spoke of his early years as an actor starting out in the theater.  He discussed his early television appearances on Showtime U.S.A.: “Green Pastures” (1951), Kraft Television Theatre: “The Emperor Jones” (1955), and CBS Television Workshop: “Brown Girl, Brownstones” (1960).  He spoke of writing and starring in the play “Purlie Victorious” and its feature film adaptation.  He spoke of his many acting roles on stage, in the movies, and on television in such series as The Defenders, the Hallmark Hall of Fame, and Evening Shade and the miniseries King and Roots: The Next Generations .  He also discussed his work as a film director, beginning with Cotton Comes to Harlem (1970).  He spoke of his collaborations with his wife of many years Ruby Dee, including their radio show With Ossie and Ruby (1981-82).  The interview was conducted by Harold Dow on October 26, 1999.