Noble Johnson

1881–1978 (age 97)

Actor/Filmmaker

Biography

Noble Johnson was a pioneering African American actor and filmmaker who made significant contributions to early cinema. Born in 1881, he appeared in numerous silent films and became one of the first Black actors to achieve prominence in Hollywood during an era of considerable racial barriers.

Johnson's legacy extends beyond his on-screen work; he was instrumental in founding the Lincoln Motion Picture Company, one of the earliest Black-owned film production companies. His career spanned decades, and he remained active in the entertainment industry until his passing in 1978, leaving an indelible mark on American cinema history.

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