An old image of US singer and civil rights activist Harry Belafonte.
Harry Belafonte, a singer, songwriter, and groundbreaking actor who became an indispensable supporter of the civil rights movement, has died at the age of 96.
Here are 5 facts on the barrier-breaking artist-activist:
- Harry Belafonte was born in Harlem to a Jamaican mother and a French father. He spent part of his childhood in Jamaica before returning to New York, a binational upbringing that shaped his musical and political outlooks and saw him campaign tirelessly for racial equality.
- Harry Belafonte was dubbed the "King of Calypso" after the groundbreaking success of his 1956 hit, 'The Banana Boat Song (Day-O)."
- He also became a movie star after acting in the film adaptation of the Broadway musical 'Carmen Jones'.
- He was also a key strategist, fundraiser, and mediator for the civil rights movement. He continually risked his entertainment career and, at least once, his life for his activism.
- Harry Belafonte is survived by his wife Pamela, children Adrienne Belafonte Biesemeyer, Shari Belafonte, Gina Belafonte, David Belafonte, two stepchildren, Sarah Frank and Lindsey Frank, and eight grandchildren.
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