In honor of Billy Dee Williams’ 80th birthday, click through to review his 10 best roles.
“Brian’s Song”
In his Emmy-nominated role, Williams plays Chicago Bears running back Gale Sayers. The movie documents Sayers relationship with Brian Piccolo (James Caan), a teammate dealing with cancer. The 1971 made-for-TV film won five Emmys.
“Lady Sings the Blues”
Williams plays opposite Diana Ross as the love interest of Billie Holiday, Louis McKay. The 1972 film was nominated for five Academy Awards.
“Mahogany”
Williams and Ross are back as love interests in the 1975 romantic drama. Williams plays Brian Walker, an activist and aspiring politician, opposite Ross’s Tracy Chambers, a woman trying to make it in the fashion industry.
“The Empire Strikes Back”
In the 1980 Episode V of the Star Wars saga, Williams plays Han Solo’s (Harrison Ford’s) friend Lando Calrissian. In the Cloud City on Bespin, Calrissian leads Solo’s group into a trap that lands them in the hands of Darth Vader.
“Return of the Jedi”
Williams reprises his role as Calrissian in the 1983 Episode VI of the original Star Wars trilogy. Calrissian pilots the Millennium Falcon as he leads the rebels to the Death Star.
“Nighthawks”
Williams plays Sgt. Matthew Fox alongside Sylvester Stallone, who plays Deke DaSilva in this 1981 action movie. The two New York City cops are enlisted into an anti-terrorism squad.
“Batman”
In the 1989 “Batman,” Williams plays recently-elected district attorney Harvey Dent.
“The Ladies Man”
In this 2000 comedy, Williams played the role of Lester alongside Tim Meadows, who played his character Leon Phelps from sketches on “Saturday Night Live.”
“The Visit”
Inspired by a true story, this 2000 drama follows Alex Waters (Hill Harper), a man with AIDS in prison for a crime he says he didn’t commit. Williams plays Henry, Alex’s father.
“Undercover Brother”
This 2002 spoof on the James Bond franchise and 1970s action films stars Dave Chappelle, Chris Kattan and Eddie Griffin. Williams plays General Warren Boutwell, whose potential run for president angers “The Man.”
