Billy Dee Williams

Billy Dee Williams, born William December Williams Jr. on April 6, 1937, is an American actor, novelist, and painter. He is best known for his portrayal of Lando Calrissian in the Star Wars franchise, appearing in The Empire Strikes Back (1980), Return of the Jedi (1983), and The Rise of Skywalker (2019). Williams was born and raised in New York City, growing up in Harlem with his twin sister, Loretta. He began his career in Broadway at the age of seven and later pursued painting, earning a scholarship to the National Academy of Fine Arts and Design. Williams continued to act in stage, films, and television, while also showcasing his paintings in galleries worldwide.