Bill Duke

Bill Duke (b. February 26, 1943) is an American actor and film director.

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Born in Poughkeepsie, New York, Duke received his first instruction in the performing arts at Boston University. After also studying at New York University's Tisch School of Arts and the AFI Conservatory, Duke began his career behind the camera, directing episodes of several noteworthy 1980s television series, including Hill Street Blues and Miami Vice. Standing an imposing 6'4 and featuring a closely shaved head, Duke became a familiar face to moviegoers after portraying tough guys alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in Commando and Predator, as well as the memorable police chief in Carl Weathers' action vehicle Action Jackson. He was a dirty cop in the Mel Gibson revenge movie "Payback." He is currently cast to appear in the film X-Men 3.

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Returning to the director's chair, Duke began directing feature-length films in the 1990s with crime dramas A Rage in Harlem and Deep Cover. He also directed The Cemetery Club and the well-received Sister Act 2, starring Whoopi Goldberg. Duke continues to act and direct for both the small and silver screens. He is also a mentor for young African-Americans aspiring for the performance arts.

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February 26: February 26 is the 57th day of the year in the Gregorian Calendar. There are 308 days remaining, 309 in leap years....

1943: :This is an article about the year 1943. For the arcade and video game, see 1943....

American: :This page disambiguates the many uses of American. For an article about those various uses, please see Use of the word American....

Bill Duke related Images and Photos (experimental)

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