# Yaphet Kotto

> American actor (1939–2021)

**Wikidata**: [Q266270](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q266270)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yaphet_Kotto)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/yaphet-kotto

## Summary
Yaphet Kotto was an American actor known for his work in film, television, and theater. He gained prominence for his roles in notable productions such as *Live and Let Die* (1973) and was active in the entertainment industry from 1963 until 2014. Kotto was recognized for his versatility as a performer across multiple mediums.

## Biography
- **Born**: November 15, 1939 (or possibly 1937)
- **Died**: March 15, 2021
- **Nationality**: American
- **Occupation**: Actor (film, television, stage), director
- **Known for**: Roles in *Live and Let Die* (1973) and other film, television, and stage productions
- **Field(s)**: Acting, film direction
- **Work Period**: 1963–2014

## Contributions
Yaphet Kotto contributed to the entertainment industry through his performances in film, television, and theater. His role in the 1973 James Bond film *Live and Let Die* is one of his most notable contributions. Additionally, he worked as a director, further expanding his influence in the creative arts.

## FAQs
**What was Yaphet Kotto's most famous role?**
Yaphet Kotto is best known for his role in the 1973 James Bond film *Live and Let Die*, where he played the villain Dr. Kananga.

**In which mediums did Yaphet Kotto work?**
Kotto worked across multiple mediums, including film, television, and stage acting. He also directed creative works.

**When was Yaphet Kotto active in his career?**
Yaphet Kotto's career spanned from 1963 to 2014, during which he made significant contributions to the entertainment industry.

**What other roles did Yaphet Kotto have besides acting?**
In addition to acting, Kotto was involved in film direction, showcasing his versatility in the creative arts.

## Why They Matter
Yaphet Kotto's work in film, television, and theater left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. His performances, particularly in *Live and Let Die*, contributed to the cultural significance of the James Bond franchise. As a director, he also influenced the creative process behind filmmaking, demonstrating his multifaceted talent.

## Notable For
- Role in *Live and Let Die* (1973)
- Work as a film, television, and stage actor
- Contributions as a director in the creative arts
- Active career from 1963 to 2014

## Body
### Early Life and Career Beginnings
Yaphet Kotto was born on November 15, 1939 (or possibly 1937), in the United States. He began his career in acting in 1963, quickly establishing himself as a versatile performer across film, television, and stage.

### Acting Career
Kotto's acting career spanned over five decades, during which he became known for his roles in various productions. His most iconic role was in the 1973 James Bond film *Live and Let Die*, where he played the villain Dr. Kananga. This role solidified his place in the entertainment industry and contributed to the film's success.

### Work in Television and Stage
In addition to his film work, Kotto was active in television and stage acting. His performances in these mediums showcased his range as an actor, allowing him to take on diverse roles and characters.

### Directing and Other Contributions
Beyond acting, Kotto also worked as a director, further expanding his influence in the creative arts. His contributions to film direction highlighted his multifaceted talent and his ability to shape creative works behind the scenes.

### Legacy
Yaphet Kotto's legacy in the entertainment industry is marked by his significant contributions to film, television, and stage. His work in *Live and Let Die* remains one of his most notable achievements, and his career as a whole demonstrates his versatility and talent as an actor and director.

## References

1. BnF authorities
2. Integrated Authority File
3. Czech National Authority Database
4. Find a Grave
5. International Standard Name Identifier
6. Virtual International Authority File
7. MusicBrainz
8. [Source](https://www.theguardian.com/film/2021/mar/26/yaphet-kotto-obituary)
9. IMDb
10. [Yaphet Kotto, Bond Villain and ‘Alien’ Star, Dies at 81](https://variety.com/2021/film/news/yaphet-kotto-dead-dies-alien-bond-villain-1234931654/)
11. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
12. IdRef
13. CONOR.SI
14. Quora
15. The Movie Database
16. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data