Introduction
Phylicia Rashad is a renowned actress, director, and singer who has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry. She is best known for her role as Clair Huxtable in the hit television series, The Cosby Show. However, her life and career go far beyond her acting achievements. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into the life and career of Phylicia Rashad, from her early days to her current status as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Family
Phylicia Rashad was born on June 19, 1948, in Houston, Texas. Her parents, Andrew Arthur Allen and Vivian Elizabeth Ayers, were both prominent figures in the African American community. Her father was a dentist, while her mother was a Pulitzer Prize-nominated poet, playwright, and publisher. Rashad’s parents divorced when she was young, and her mother remarried to dentist and civil rights activist, Curtis W. Watkins.
As a child, Rashad was exposed to the arts through her mother’s involvement in the Black Arts Movement. She attended Howard University, where she studied drama and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. During her time at Howard, she became involved in theater productions and developed a passion for acting.
Howard University and Career Beginnings
After graduating from Howard University, Rashad joined the Negro Ensemble Company in New York City, where she gained valuable experience as an actress. She made her Broadway debut in 1972 in the play, The Great White Hope. She went on to appear in several other Broadway productions, including Dreamgirls and Jelly’s Last Jam.
In 1983, Rashad landed the role of Clair Huxtable in The Cosby Show, which would become her most famous role. The show was a huge success, and Rashad’s portrayal of Clair Huxtable earned her critical acclaim and multiple awards. She continued to act in television and film, appearing in shows like Everybody Hates Chris and movies like For Colored Girls.
Phylicia Rashad as a Dean at Howard University
In 2011, Rashad was appointed as the Dean of the College of Fine Arts at Howard University, her alma mater. She held the position until 2020 and was instrumental in the growth and development of the college. During her tenure, she helped to establish a new Master of Fine Arts program and worked to expand the college’s facilities.
As a dean, Rashad was passionate about education and the arts. She believed that the arts were essential to the development of young people and worked to provide opportunities for students to pursue their artistic passions. Her dedication to the arts and education has earned her numerous accolades and awards.
Phylicia Rashad as a Mother of Felicia Allen Rashad
Phylicia Rashad is also a proud mother of her daughter, Felicia Allen Rashad. Felicia is an accomplished actress and producer, known for her work in shows like Empire and David Makes Man. She has also worked behind the scenes as a producer, with credits on shows like Queen Sugar.
Phylicia Rashad has been a supportive mother to Felicia, encouraging her to pursue her dreams and providing guidance and advice along the way. The two have a close relationship, and Felicia has spoken openly about the influence her mother has had on her career.
Conclusion
Phylicia Rashad’s life and career are a testament to her talent, dedication, and passion for the arts. From her early days at Howard University to her current status as a respected figure in the entertainment industry, she has made a significant impact on the world around her. As a mother, actress, and dean, she has inspired countless people and will continue to do so for years to come.
