Bill Duke

My 40-Year Career on Screen and Behind the Camera

By: Bill Duke

Narrated by: David Sadzin

While many film fans may not be familiar with Bill Duke's name, they most certainly recognize his face. Dating back to the 1970s, Duke has appeared in a number of popular films, including Car Wash, American Gigolo, Commando, Predator, and X-Men: The Last Stand. Fewer still might be aware of Duke's extraordinary accomplishments off-screen as a talented director, producer, entrepreneur, and humanitarian.

Bill Duke: My 40-Year Career on Screen and Behind the Camera is the memoir of a Hollywood original. In an industry that rarely embraces artists of color, Duke first achieved success as an actor then turned to directing. After helming episodes of ratings giants Dallas, Falcon Crest, Hill Street Blues, and Miami Vice, Duke progressed to feature films like A Rage in Harlem, Deep Cover, Hoodlum, and Sister Act 2.

In this candid autobiography, Duke recalls the loving but stern presence of his mother and father, acting mentors like Olympia Dukakis, and the pitfalls that nearly derailed his career, notably an addiction to drugs. Along the way, listeners will encounter familiar names like Danny Glover, Laurence Fishburne, Forest Whitaker, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Whoopi Goldberg.

©2018 The Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group, Inc. (P)2019 Tantor

Inciteful

Bill Duke peels back the veil of his world and courageously allows his life to be instructive to the human condition and how to rise above it when needed. A pleasant and inspiring piece. Amazing the giants that this man knew and no wonder he. Became a Giant himself

Great Listen

He cover a span of time with so must insight and self reflection. Really opens up about who and why he is Wonderful.

Extraordinary Human; his story will lift millions

I first saw Bill Duke in the movie Car Wash, I was twelve, I knew then there was something different and special about him. Even-though I was a child he reminded me of me, and seeing him on that screen made me feel as thongh I could become whatever I truly put my mind too. I've never forgotten Mr. Duke, though I have not followed his career closly and I didn't know he had written a book, until for some reason I did a search for his name, once I discovered this book I had to read it. Mr Duke, thank you for your vulnerability and honesty, what a magnificent life you've lived, it is truly a valuable treasure for so many. Hopefully this will become a movie and of course you would be the director. Thank you

Very Respectfully

The hardships and success of an actor.

I loved how the story was told. The words of the author kept me intrigued. I recommend this title for that individual who loved to be a part of the media industry.

Long Career

I heard about the book from DJ Vlad. This was a great listen. I will rent his movies.