Willie Best

Biography

Willie Best was a pioneering African-American actor and comedian who became well-known in the early days of Hollywood. He appeared in over 100 films of the 1930s and 1940s, often playing stereotypical roles that have been criticized for their portrayal of African Americans. Despite this, he received screen credit in at least 77 of his movies, an unusual feat for a black actor at the time. Best was also praised by notable comedians like Bob Hope, who called him "the best actor I know."