Actor Keith David, born Keith David Williams in Harlem, New York City, back in 1956, spent his formative years growing up in Corona, Queens. Now, Keith David’s journey into the world of performing arts began early—he attended New York’s prestigious High School of Performing Arts, which laid the foundation for his future success. Later on, he further honed his craft at the renowned Juilliard School’s Drama Division, where he refined his skills among some of the most talented performers of his generation.
After graduating, Keith David quickly made a name for himself, touring with John Houseman’s esteemed “The Acting Company.” During this time, he appeared in several notable productions, including classics like “Waiting for Godot” and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” It wasn’t long before Hollywood came calling—just two years after graduation, he landed a role in John Carpenter’s iconic sci-fi thriller “The Thing,” marking the beginning of a prolific film career.
From there, Keith David kept working steadily throughout the 1980s, building an impressive resume with roles in major films such as “Platoon” (1986), “Stars and Bars” (1988), “Always” (1989), and the cult favorite “Road House” (1989). As the ‘90s rolled in, Keith David continued to shine in critically acclaimed projects like “Clockers” (1995), “Dead Presidents” (1995), the emotionally intense “Requiem for a Dream” (1999), and even showed his range in the hit comedy “There’s Something About Mary” (1998).
But Keith David’s talents weren’t limited to the big screen. In fact, he became just as well-known for his powerful voice work. He brought depth and gravitas to the character of Goliath in Disney’s animated series “Gargoyles” (1994–97), a role fans still remember fondly. He also lent his unmistakable voice to Studio Ghibli’s “Princess Mononoke” (1997), introducing Western audiences to the film’s epic storytelling. Over the years, Keith David became a go-to narrator for high-profile documentaries—his rich baritone featured prominently in Ken Burns’ acclaimed historical films, as well as programming for PBS, the History Channel, Major League Baseball, and even WWE.
Beyond film and voice acting, Keith David maintained a strong presence in theater. His stage performance in the 1992 production of “Jelly’s Last Jam” earned him widespread praise and a well-deserved Tony Award nomination, proving his versatility across all mediums. Throughout his career, Keith David has remained a respected and enduring figure in entertainment—one whose contributions continue to resonate across generations.
When it comes to Keith David’s filmography, fans and critics alike have taken notice of the highs and lows throughout his career. One standout in particular is Entergalactic (2022), which many consider Keith David’s highest-rated film to date. The movie received widespread acclaim, showcasing Keith David’s enduring talent and ability to connect with modern audiences. On the other end of the spectrum, American Dresser (2018) tends to rank lower in terms of critical reception, making it what some view as Keith David’s lowest-rated film. While opinions may vary, it’s clear that Keith David continues to leave a mark on the industry—whether in roles that soar or ones that spark more modest reactions. Through it all, Keith David remains a respected figure in cinema.