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Ron Taylor

Date of Death: January 16, 2001 (48)

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BIO

Ron Taylor was a multi-talented performer who made his mark on Broadway, television, and film. Born in Galveston, Texas, in 1952, Taylor grew up singing in the church choir and playing football in high school. After attending Texas Southern University, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in entertainment.



Taylor's first big break came when he was cast in the original Broadway production of "The Wiz" in 1975. He played the role of the Cowardly Lion and earned critical acclaim for his powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence. Taylor went on to appear in several other Broadway productions, including "It Ain't Nothin' But the Blues" and "Little Shop of Horrors."

In addition to his stage work, Taylor also made a name for himself on television. He appeared in numerous episodes of the hit sitcom "The Cosby Show" as Mr. Harding, the gym teacher. He also had recurring roles on the soap opera "Ryan's Hope" and the crime drama "Law & Order." Taylor's film credits include "Trading Places," "Lean on Me," and "The Little Mermaid," in which he provided the voice of Sebastian the crab.

Taylor was not only a talented actor, but also a gifted singer and songwriter. He released several albums throughout his career, including "Destiny" and "Through the Eyes of Love." He also wrote and performed the theme song for the television series "Amen," in which he had a recurring role as Reverend Reuben Gregory.

Despite his success, Taylor faced many challenges throughout his life. He struggled with his weight and was diagnosed with diabetes in the early 1990s. He also faced discrimination in the entertainment industry due to his race and size. However, Taylor never let these obstacles hold him back. He continued to work hard and pursue his passions, inspiring others with his perseverance and positive attitude.

Taylor's last Broadway credit was in the 2001 revival of "Little Shop of Horrors," in which he reprised his role as the voice of Audrey II. He continued to act in television and film, appearing in shows like "The Sopranos" and "Girlfriends" and films like "The Dream Team" and "Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps." Taylor passed away in 2002 at the age of 49, leaving behind a legacy of talent, determination, and heart.

STAGE CREDITS

[Broadway]
Broadway Transfer, 1999
Performer

[Off-Broadway]
Original Off-Broadway Production, 1999
Performer

[Off-Broadway]
1999
Performer

[Regional (US)]
World Premiere, 1987
Tee-Tot

[Broadway]
Broadway Revival, 1984
Porthos

[Off-Broadway]
Original Off-Broadway Production, 1982
Audrey II [voice]

Voice of Audrey II

[Off-Off-Broadway]
Showcase, 1982
Performer

[US Tour]
1st National Tour, 1976
Uncle Henry [Replacement]

Productions

 
[Broadway, 1999]
Production Associate

Writing

Source Material
Bookwriter
Playwright

Awards and Nominations

Tony Awards - 1999 - Best Book of a Musical

Ron Taylor, It Ain't Nothin' But the Blues

Tony Awards - 1999 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical

Ron Taylor, It Ain't Nothin' But the Blues


winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1983 - Outstanding Projection Design

Ron Taylor , Little Shop of Horrors

Videos

News


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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many Broadway shows has Ron Taylor been in?

Ron Taylor has appeared on Broadway in 2 shows.

How many West End shows has Ron Taylor been in?

Ron Taylor has not appeared in the West End

What awards has Ron Taylor been nominated for?

Ron Taylor has been nominated for several awards throughout his career. He was nominated for Best Book of a Musical at the Tony Awards for his work on "It Ain't Nothin' But the Blues." Additionally, he received a nomination for Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical at the Tony Awards for the same production. Furthermore, Taylor was recognized for Outstanding Projection Design at the Drama Desk Awards for his contribution to "Little Shop of Horrors."

What awards has Ron Taylor won?

Ron Taylor has won the Outstanding Projection Design award at the Drama Desk Awards for his work on the Broadway show Little Shop of Horrors.

How many shows has Ron Taylor written?

Ron Taylor has written 1 shows including It Ain't Nothin' But the Blues (Source Material).

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