Clarence Williams III

Clarence Williams III (August 21, 1939 – June 4, 2021) was an American actor known for his role as Linc Hayes in the police television series The Mod Squad from 1968 to 1973. He also appeared in notable films such as Purple Rain, 52 Pick-Up, Tales from the Hood, Hoodlum, Half Baked, Life, American Gangster, and Reindeer Games. Born in New York City, Williams was the son of a professional musician and grandson of jazz and blues composer/pianist Clarence Williams and singer-actress Eva Taylor. After serving in the U.S. Army, Williams began his acting career on Broadway before transitioning to film and television.