Courtney B. Vance Bio
Courtney Bernard Vance (born March 12, 1960) is an American actor known for his extensive work in film, television, and theatre. He gained recognition for his role in American Crime Story, which earned him a Primetime Emmy Award. Vance is also celebrated for his performances on Broadway, particularly in August Wilson’s Fences, for which he received a Tony Award. He has appeared in various notable films including The Hunt for Red October and The Preacher’s Wife, and he continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Background
Vance was born in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Leslie Anita, a librarian, and Conroy Vance, a grocery store manager. He attended Detroit Country Day School and later graduated from Harvard University with a Bachelor of Arts degree. While at Harvard, he began acting at the Boston Shakespeare Company. He subsequently earned a Master of Fine Arts degree at Yale School of Drama, where he met fellow student and future wife Angela Bassett.
Path to Hollywood
In 1985, Vance started his acting career on stage as Cory in the Yale Repertory Theatre production of August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play Fences. He continued the role on Broadway opposite James Earl Jones, winning a Clarence Derwent Award and the Theatre World Award for his performance. Vance’s film debut was in the 1987 American war film Hamburger Hill. Throughout the 1990s, he acted in various feature films such as The Hunt for Red October and The Preacher’s Wife, while also guest-starring in numerous television shows.
Courtney B. Vance Career
Early Career (1983–1999)
Vance’s early career included notable performances in both film and television. He starred in the Broadway production of Fences, earning his first Tony Award nomination. His film career took off with roles in The Hunt for Red October and The Preacher’s Wife. He also appeared in television series such as Law & Order and Thirtysomething, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Breakthrough (2016–Present)
Vance’s breakthrough came with his portrayal of civil rights lawyer Johnnie Cochran in FX’s American Crime Story, which premiered in 2016. His performance was critically acclaimed, winning him the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie. He continued to expand his career with roles in HBO’s Lovecraft Country and the Netflix film Uncorked. In 2023, Vance was cast in Disney’s live-action reimagining of Lilo & Stitch as Cobra Bubbles.
Notable Works and Milestones
Vance is recognized for his signature roles in both film and television, including The Hunt for Red October, The Preacher’s Wife, and American Crime Story. His performances have garnered numerous awards and nominations, solidifying his status as a talented actor in the industry.
Courtney B. Vance Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Courtney B. Vance has received various nominations for prestigious awards, including the Primetime Emmy Awards and Tony Awards, reflecting his talent and dedication to the craft of acting.
Courtney B. Vance Awards Won
Vance has won several notable awards, including the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie for his role in American Crime Story, and the Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play for his performance in Lucky Guy.
| Award | Wins | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Primetime Emmy Awards | 1 | 2016 |
| Tony Award | 1 | 2013 |
Courtney B. Vance Family
Courtney B. Vance has been married to actress Angela Bassett since 1997. Together, they have twins, a son and a daughter, born in 2006 via surrogacy. The family resides in Los Angeles.
Personal Life
Vance is actively involved in various charitable organizations, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. He is also on the board of directors for The Actors Center in New York City. In 2019, he was appointed president of the Screen Actors Guild Foundation.
