William Edward "Bill" Duke (born February 26, 1943) is an American actor and filmmaker. He has appeared in numerous movies, television shows, and stage productions. He is best known for his roles in American Gigolo (1980), Commando (1985), Predator (1987), and Exit Wounds (2001).
Duke was born in Poughkeepsie, New York, the son of Loretta C. (née Eure) and William Henry Duke. He studied acting at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco and at the Goodman Theater in Chicago. His early career included appearances in numerous stage productions, including the Broadway production of Purlie (1970) and the Off-Broadway play Ceremonies in Dark Old Men (1971).
In the 1980s, Duke made his mark on film, appearing in American Gigolo (1980), Commando (1985), and Predator (1987). He also starred in the television movie A Family of Strangers (1993) and was nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Actor in a Television Movie for his performance in the 1994 TV movie, Against the Wall.
Duke has been active in television since the late 1970s, appearing in shows like Sanford and Son (1977), Baretta (1978), Hill Street Blues (1981), Matlock (1987), In the Heat of the Night (1990), and most recently, House of Cards (2016). He also starred in the short-lived series Spenser: For Hire (1985-1988).
Duke has directed several films, including Hoodlum (1997), Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit (1993), and Deep Cover (1992). He has also directed television episodes for shows like The Shield (2002-2008), The District (2000-2004), and The Outer Limits (1995-2000).
In addition to his acting and directing career, Duke is an accomplished author. He has written two books, Duke: The Life and Times of an Actor-Director and Bill Duke's Guide to Directing Film.
Duke is a committed philanthropist, supporting organizations like the Bill Duke Foundation, which focuses on mentoring inner-city youth, and the Caribbean Heritage Foundation, which promotes Caribbean culture through scholarships and mentorship programs.
Duke has won numerous awards throughout his career, including an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture for his role in American Gigolo (1980). He was also nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Actor in
