Veteran American actor Bill Cobbs has passed away at 90. He was best known for his role as security guard Reggie in “Night at the Museum” (2006) and Whitney Houston’s manager Bill Devaney in “The Bodyguard” (1992). Cobbs also appeared in “Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb” (2014).
Legacy and Career
Bill Cobbs died on Tuesday evening in Inland Empire, California. His agent confirmed that he was surrounded by family and likely died of natural causes.
Cobbs’s memorable roles include Arthur Chaney in “Air Bud,” Moses the Clock Man in “The Hudsucker Proxy,” and Dr. Elton Lloyd in “Sunshine State.” He appeared on TV shows such as “The Sopranos,” “The West Wing,” “Sesame Street,” and “ER.” Over his career, Cobbs featured in 200 films and TV shows.
In 2020, Cobbs won an Emmy for outstanding limited performance in the daytime series “Dino Dana.”
Tributes and Statements
Wendell Pierce, who worked with Cobbs on “I’ll Fly Away” and “The Gregory Hines Show,” described him as a “father figure.” Pierce pledged to dedicate himself to creating work that would honor Cobbs’s memory.
Cobbs’s family shared their grief on Facebook, celebrating his recent 90th birthday and expressing comfort in his peaceful passing. They asked for prayers and encouragement during this difficult time.
Bill Cobbs Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born Wilbert Francisco Cobbs on June 16, 1934, in Cleveland, Ohio, Cobbs served as a radar technician in the Air Force before venturing into stand-up comedy and acting. His first professional role was in “Ride a Black Horse” with the Negro Ensemble Company.
Cobbs’s initial TV credit was on the children’s show “Vegetable Soup.” He then appeared in sitcoms like “Good Times” and “Baby…I’m Back!” His film debut was a minor role in the 1974 thriller “The Taking of Pelham One Two Three,” followed by roles in “Greased Lightning,” “Trading Places,” and “Silkwood.”
Bill Cobbs leaves behind a rich legacy with a diverse range of roles spanning six decades. His contributions to film and television will be remembered and celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.