Booker Bradshaw facts for kids

Booker T. Bradshaw (born May 21, 1940 – died April 1, 2003) was an American record producer, actor, and an important leader at Motown Records. He was born in Richmond, Virginia.

Booker T. Bradshaw's Early Life and Education

Booker T. Bradshaw grew up in Richmond, Virginia. His father, Booker T. Bradshaw Sr., was a successful businessman who led the Virginia Mutual Life Insurance Company. He was also involved in education, serving on the Richmond School Board.

Studying at Harvard University

Even though he worked for his father, young Booker felt like something was missing. He decided to go to Harvard University to study English. While at Harvard, he became very good at acting. He also met the famous folk singer Joan Baez there.

In 1961, when he was still a student, Booker showed off his singing skills on a TV show called The Original Amateur Hour. He won three times and even got to perform in the national finals at Madison Square Garden. He graduated from Harvard in 1962 and could speak three languages! After college, he performed at the famous Carnegie Hall. He then received a special scholarship to study acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, England.

Booker T. Bradshaw's Career Highlights

After his studies, Booker T. Bradshaw joined Motown Records in Detroit, Michigan. He became their International Manager, which meant he helped manage tours for huge music groups like The Supremes and The Temptations when they traveled in Europe.

Acting and Writing for TV and Movies

Booker T. Bradshaw also returned to his love for acting. He worked with the principal of the Royal Academy, John Ferald, doing theater plays at Oakland University.

He appeared in many popular TV shows and movies. One of his most famous roles was Dr. M'Benga in two episodes of the original Star Trek TV show. He also acted in other well-known series such as The Mod Squad, Bracken's World, and The F.B.I.. In 1973, he was in the movie Coffy.

Besides acting, Booker T. Bradshaw was also a talented writer. He wrote for TV shows like Planet Of The Apes, Get Christie Love!, and Columbo.

Booker T. Bradshaw's Later Life and Passing

Booker T. Bradshaw passed away from a heart attack in Los Angeles, California on April 1, 2003. He was almost 63 years old. He is survived by his daughter, Alaiyo Bradshaw.

Notable Film and Television Roles

Booker T. Bradshaw had many roles in films and on television. Here are some of his memorable appearances:

• 1969: Some Kind of a Nut as Sam
• 1970: Skullduggery as Smoot
• 1970: The Strawberry Statement as Lucas
• 1973: Coffy as Howard Brunswick
• 1966: Tarzan as Dr. B'Dula
• 1968: Star Trek: The Original Series as Dr. M'Benga (2 episodes)
• 1968: The Mod Squad as Doc Lightener
• 1969: The F.B.I. as Special Agent Harry Dane (2 episodes)
• 1977: I Am the Greatest: The Adventures of Muhammad Ali (voice roles)
• 1983: Alvin and the Chipmunks (voice roles)