Veteran actor Bill Cobbs, best known for his memorable performances in films such as The Bodyguard, Night at the Museum, and New Jack City, has passed away peacefully at the age of 90. The news was confirmed by his brother, Pastor Thomas G. Cobbs, who shared an announcement on Facebook on June 25, 2025.
Cobbs, whose real name was Wilbert Francisco Cobbs, recently celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by close friends and family. His passing marks the end of a prolific acting career that spanned over five decades and featured more than 100 appearances across film, television, and stage.
Remembering a Remarkable Career
Born on June 16, 1934, in Cleveland, Ohio, Bill Cobbs initially worked as a radar technician in the U.S. Air Force. Following his military service, he entered the corporate world, including a stint at IBM, before turning to acting in his mid-30s. According to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Cobbs credited community theater in Cleveland with helping launch his acting career in the early 1970s.
His breakthrough came with a small role in The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974). From there, Cobbs steadily built a resume of varied roles that demonstrated both his range and his consistency as a performer.
Notable Performances and Industry Respect
Bill Cobbs’ screen presence was unmistakable. He portrayed Whitney Houston’s manager in The Bodyguard (1992), appeared alongside Eddie Murphy in Trading Places (1983), and played a security guard in Disney’s Night at the Museum (2006). Fans of Marvel television also recognized him for his role in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and his recurring guest appearances in shows like The West Wing, ER, The Sopranos, and Walker, Texas Ranger.
His contributions extended beyond entertainment—Cobbs became a respected figure in African-American cultural representation in cinema. He often gravitated toward roles that projected integrity, wisdom, and compassion.
“Bill Cobbs was one of the finest character actors in America,” wrote Variety in a retrospective on his career. “He was always present, always grounding scenes with a rare, quiet authenticity.”
In 2020, he received the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Limited Performance in a Daytime Program for his work in Dino Dana: The Movie, which highlighted his enduring appeal to audiences of all ages.
An Outpouring of Public Grief and Admiration
Following the announcement of Cobbs’ passing, tributes began flooding social media platforms. On X (formerly Twitter), fans, actors, and film critics expressed heartfelt condolences.
Film critic RogerEbert.com’s Brian Tallerico wrote, “He never missed. Whether in dramas or comedies, on screen for five minutes or fifty, Bill Cobbs elevated every project he touched.”
According to The Hollywood Reporter and Deadline, several of Cobbs’ former co-stars and directors described him as a “consummate professional” and a “gentle spirit on set,” noting how his presence often inspired younger actors and added gravitas to every scene.
Personal Life and Legacy
Though Cobbs kept much of his personal life private, it is well known that he was deeply devoted to his family and faith. His brother, Rev. Thomas G. Cobbs, frequently shared updates about Bill’s milestones and health with the public, maintaining a gentle and respectful relationship with his fanbase.
Cobbs never married, but he was a beloved uncle, mentor, and friend. Friends have described him as a warm, reflective man with a passion for jazz music, literature, and spiritual study.
His contribution to Black cinema and theater has been acknowledged in numerous academic works, and he is frequently cited as one of the enduring character actors who helped shape the cultural narrative of African-American life in Hollywood.
Final Days and Public Statement
Pastor Thomas G. Cobbs wrote in his official statement that Bill had been in good spirits following his birthday on June 16 and had expressed gratitude for the life he had lived.
“We thank God for the gift of Bill’s life and legacy, and for the many people who loved him and were touched by his work.”
The family has asked for privacy at this time and has stated that memorial details will be shared at a later date. In lieu of flowers, they have encouraged fans to consider donations to local arts programs or veterans’ charities—two causes close to Bill Cobbs’ heart.
Honoring a Gentleman and a Legend
Bill Cobbs’ impact reaches far beyond the screen. His presence in American cinema has served as a symbol of reliability, dignity, and wisdom. In a career that included roles in blockbusters, indie gems, and children’s programming, he remained consistent in one thing: excellence.
The New York Times, in an earlier profile, described Cobbs as a “pillar of support in every ensemble he joined,” noting that audiences often felt a quiet trust whenever he appeared on screen.
As fans across generations reflect on his work, they celebrate more than a performer—they remember a man whose performances made them feel, think, and connect.
