Although his real name was Michael Clarke Duncan, many first remember him as the tall death row inmate, John Coffey, from "The Green Mile," something many considered to be Duncan's breakout role.
Michael Clarke Duncan was a large man in many aspects. Coming onto the scene later in life than many Hollywood actors, he made his first debut in 1995 in the video game, "Panic in the Park."
Duncan provided a strong backdrop, so to speak, for many movies and television shows, such as "Friday" and "The French Prince of Bel-Air," both in 1995.
Currently engaged to television villain, Duncan came from Chicago, Illinois. He and his sister were raised by their mother. Although he always wanted to become an actor, Duncan eventually dropped out of school so he could help support his mother and sister.
Before becoming a multi-nominee for his role as John Coffee in "The Green Mile" and then also nominated for his role as Frankie Figs in "The Whole Nine Yards," Duncan took many security and bouncing jobs, much due to his tall body and large 6'5" frame.
Duncan met Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth and later proposed, intending to marry her this coming January. However, on July 13 of 2012, Duncan was rushed to the hospital after suffering a heart attack. It was suggested that Manigault-Stallworth performed CPR in an attempt to save his life. Although hospital officials moved Duncan from ICU, he did remain hospitalized. Duncan never fully recovered from his heart attack and passed away on Monday, September 3, at 54 years of age.
Duncan played many roles in his short Hollywood career of approximately 17 years. Still, he will truly be missed as a larger than life Hollywood great. See below to read some of his most memorable roles:
- The Green Mile "John Coffey"
- The Whole Nine Yards "Franklin 'Frankie Figs' Figueroa"
- Cats & Dogs "Sam" (voice)
- Planet of the Apes "Attar"
- Brother Bear "Tug" (voice)
- Sin City "Manute"
- Air Buddies "The Wolf" (voice)
- Kung Fu Panda "Commander Vachir the Javin Rhino" (voice)
- Two and a Half Men "Jerome"
Duncan's second to last movie, "The Challenger," where he plays the character, Duane, is currently in post-production.
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