Joe Adams (actor) facts for kids

Joe Adams (born April 11, 1924 – died July 3, 2018) was an American actor, disc jockey, businessman, and manager. He was famous for managing the music legend Ray Charles. Joe Adams also made history by being the first African-American to win a Golden Globe award.

Early Life

Joe Adams grew up in Los Angeles. His father was a Jewish businessman, and his mother was African-American.

A Career in Entertainment

Starting in Radio

Joe Adams faced challenges early on because of his race. He was told he shouldn't try to work in radio. But Joe didn't give up! He found a different way to reach his goal.

He first worked as a truck driver. Then, he became a driver and helper for Al Jarvis, a radio star in Los Angeles. After just six months, Joe became Al Jarvis's assistant producer.

Breaking Barriers in Radio

Joe Adams became the first African-American announcer on the NBC radio network. He hosted live jazz shows from the West Coast. He also helped produce parts of NBC's Monitor show.

In 1948, he started working as a disc jockey and announcer at KOWL radio in Santa Monica, California. Ten years later, people called him the station's most important person.

Hosting Big Concerts

Joe Adams was also a great host for live events. He was the emcee (host) and stage director for the "Cavalcade of Jazz" concerts. These big music shows happened at Wrigley Field in Los Angeles.

He hosted the event for ten years, starting in 1948. Many famous artists performed there. Some of them were Dizzy Gillespie, Frankie Laine, and Big Joe Turner.

Moving to Television and Film

Joe Adams started his own TV show in Los Angeles in 1951. His show featured his own 15-piece orchestra. It also had a singer and a dance team.

In 1954, Joe Adams acted in the movie Carmen Jones. He played a boxer named "Husky Miller." This movie was special because it had an all-black cast. The main actress, Dorothy Dandridge, was nominated for an Oscar.

Joe Adams also performed on stage. He had a role in the Broadway musical Jamaica in 1957.

Personal Life

Joe Adams married Emma Millhouse in 1946. They stayed married for 72 years, until his death.

Recognition and Awards

Joe Adams received many honors during his life. The Los Angeles City Council honored him on March 15, 1953. In 1955, FEM magazine gave him their Man of the Year Award.

His important papers and photos are kept at the Smithsonian Institution. This collection helps people learn about his life and career.

Filmography

Film Roles

Television Roles

See also

In Spanish: Joe Adams (actor) para niños