Jamaican actors died in 1968
Here are 1 famous actors from Jamaica died in 1968:
Vernon McCalla
Vernon McCalla (May 3, 1905 Jamaica-November 11, 1968 Oakland) also known as Vernon McCella, Vernon McCallum or Vernon George McCalla was a Jamaican actor.
He began his career in Jamaica before moving to England in the 1930s, where he continued to act on stage and in films. In 1947, he moved to the United States where he became a well-known character actor, appearing in over 70 films and television shows. Some of his notable film roles include "The Asphalt Jungle" (1950), "The Alamo" (1960), and "Island of Lost Women" (1959). McCalla was also a founding member of the Negro Actors Guild of America and was a vocal advocate for equality in the entertainment industry. He continued to act until his death in Oakland in 1968 at the age of 63.
In addition to his acting career, Vernon McCalla was also a talented musician and dancer. He played the piano and trumpet, and even appeared as a band leader in several films. McCalla was also a skilled tap dancer, and performed in several stage productions in England and the United States.
Despite his success in the entertainment industry, McCalla faced racism and discrimination throughout his career. He often played roles that perpetuated negative stereotypes of Black people, and was sometimes denied employment opportunities on the basis of his race. In response, he spoke out against racism in the industry and worked to uplift Black actors and artists.
McCalla was married twice, first to fellow actor Josephine Premice and later to choreographer Agnes de Mille. He had one daughter, Gail, with de Mille.
Today, Vernon McCalla is remembered as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, who used his platform to advocate for equality and representation for Black artists.
He was born in rural Jamaica and discovered a love for the performing arts at a young age. As a teenager, he joined a traveling theater company and began touring the island, performing in plays and musicals. He quickly became known for his singing and dancing skills, and was soon recruited to perform in England.
McCalla's move to the United States in 1947 marked a turning point in his career. He began to receive more prominent roles in films and television shows, and became a familiar face to audiences across America. Despite the challenges he faced as a Black actor, McCalla remained committed to his craft and continued to push for greater representation and opportunities for people of color in the entertainment industry.
In addition to his work on stage and screen, Vernon McCalla was also a passionate advocate for social justice. He participated in civil rights marches and protests, and used his platform to speak out against racism and discrimination. He was a vocal supporter of Black-owned businesses and organizations, and was known for his generosity and kindness to those around him.
Today, Vernon McCalla's legacy lives on through his groundbreaking work in film and theater, as well as his tireless commitment to promoting equality and justice for all. His contributions to the entertainment industry and the larger social movement for civil rights continue to inspire artists and activists today.