Frankie Faison

Frankie Faison is an American character actor renowned for his extensive and versatile career in film, television, and theater. He is perhaps best known for his recurring role as Baltimore Police Department Commissioner Ervin Burrell on the acclaimed HBO series The Wire and for portraying Barney Matthews, the orderly of Hannibal Lecter, across multiple films in the ''Hannibal Lecter'' film series. With a career spanning over five decades, Faison has established himself as a respected and familiar presence, often bringing depth and gravitas to authoritative or paternal figures.

Early life and education

Frankie Russel Faison was born on June 10, 1949, in Newport News, Virginia. He developed an interest in acting during his youth and pursued his passion academically. Faison earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama from Illinois State University, where he honed his craft. Following his undergraduate studies, he continued his professional training at the prestigious New York University's Tisch School of the Arts, further preparing for a career on the stage and screen.

Career

Faison began his professional acting career in New York theater during the early 1970s, performing in numerous Off-Broadway productions. His breakthrough film role came in 1974 with a part in Gordon Parks's crime drama The Super Cops. He gained wider recognition for his performance in the 1988 comedy Coming to America, starring Eddie Murphy. A significant chapter of his film career involves the ''Hannibal Lecter'' series, where he appeared as orderly Barney in Manhunter (1986), The Silence of the Lambs (1991), Hannibal (2001), and Red Dragon (2002). On television, his most iconic role is arguably Police Commissioner Ervin Burrell on HBO's The Wire, a part he played throughout the series' five-season run. Other notable television credits include recurring roles on The Blacklist, Banshee, and Luke Cage, as well as a long-running part as Dr. William Bell in the CBS soap opera The Guiding Light.

Personal life

Faison has been married to actress Jane Mandel since 1988. The couple maintains a relatively private life, residing in New York City. He is known to be an avid supporter of the arts and frequently participates in theater workshops and community events. Faison has also been involved in various charitable endeavors, often focusing on youth arts education programs in urban communities.

Filmography

A selected list of Frankie Faison's film and television appearances includes: * The Super Cops (1974) * Manhunter (1986) * Coming to America (1988) * The Silence of the Lambs (1991) * Sommersby (1993) * The Wire (2002–2008) * Hannibal (2001) * Red Dragon (2002) * Showtime (2002) * The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009) * The Good Wife (2010–2011) * Banshee (2013–2016) * The Blacklist (2014–2015) * Luke Cage (2016–2018)

Awards and nominations

Throughout his career, Faison has been recognized by several industry organizations. He received a NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for his work on The Wire. His consistent and powerful performances in theater have also earned him critical acclaim, including accolades from the Audelco Awards, which honor excellence in African-American theater.

Category:American male film actors Category:American male television actors Category:Actors from Newport News, Virginia Category:Illinois State University alumni Category:New York University alumni Category:1949 births Category:Living people