Who is Harry Belafonte?

Harry Belafonte is known for his successful career as a singer, songwriter, actor, and social activist. However, many people may not be aware that he was also a successful commercial actor.

Belafonte began his commercial work in the late 1950s and early 1960s, appearing in advertisements for a range of products including Pepsi, Timex watches, and Bristol-Myers toothpaste. In 1958, Belafonte became the first African-American to win an Emmy award, for his television special "Tonight with Belafonte."

In the 1970s, Belafonte became a spokesman for the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), traveling the world to advocate for children's rights. This work inspired one of his most famous commercials, a 1985 ad for UNICEF in which he sang "We Are the World" alongside a group of children.

Belafonte's commercial work was widely praised for its authenticity, as he often used his natural charisma and musical talents to convey a genuine emotional connection with the products he was promoting.

Overall, Harry Belafonte's work as a commercial actor was a small but important part of his illustrious career. It demonstrated his skill as a performer and his ability to use his platform to make a positive impact in the world.

Social media links