Glynn Turman

Biography

Glynn Russell Turman, born on January 31, 1947, in New York City, is a distinguished American actor and writer with a career that has spanned many years across stage, television, and film. He first gained significant attention for his portrayal of Leroy "Preach" Jackson in the iconic 1975 movie "Cooley High." Turman’s exceptional skills as a performer were further recognized on Broadway, where he won a Tony Award for his role in "The Great White Hope." He is particularly celebrated for his television performances, most notably as the math professor and retired Army colonel Bradford Taylor in the NBC sitcom "A Different World" and as the fictional mayor of Baltimore, Clarence Royce, in the critically acclaimed HBO series "The Wire." Additionally, he appeared in the series "House of Lies." His impressive body of work in film includes notable performances in "Gremlins" and "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom." With his compelling stage presence, Turman continues to captivate audiences, demonstrating a remarkable range and depth in his roles.