Actor Bill Cobbs, who appeared in films like Night at the Museum, The Bodyguard and Air Bud, has died at age 90, according to his family and his publicist. His publicist, Chuck I. Jones, told the Associated Press that Cobbs died at home in Inland Empire, California, on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, shortly after his 90th birthday, which was on June 16. He probably died of natural causes, his publicist told the outlet.
On Facebook, his brother Thomas G. Cobbs, a pastor, also shared the news. "We are saddened to share the passing of Bill Cobbs. On Tuesday, June 25, Bill passed away peacefully at his home in California," he wrote.
"A beloved partner, big brother, uncle, surrogate parent, godfather and friend, Bill recently and happily celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by cherished loved ones," Thomas continued. "As a family we are comforted knowing Bill has found peace and eternal rest with his Heavenly Father. We ask for your prayers and encouragement during this time."
Cobbs had about 200 film and TV credits. Actor Wendell Pierce, who had worked with Cobbs before, called Cobbs "an iconic artist" in a post on X.
"Days after his 90th Birthday, Bill Cobbs died today. A father figure, a griot, an iconic artist, that mentored me by the way he led his life as an actor," Pierce wrote on the platform. "He played my father twice: in I’ll Fly Away & The Gregory Hines Show. Each time imparting wisdom with a word of encouragement."
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The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) also shared a tribute to Cobbs, noting that Cobbs was a member of the union since 1976.
"Iconic character actor Bill Cobbs has passed away at the age of 90. Cobbs excelled at comedy and drama. From 'The Hudsucker Proxy' to 'Night at the Museum,' his many stage, TV & film performances captivated audiences," SAG-AFTRA shared on X.
