Napoleon Whiting was an American character actor who played many bit parts, often uncredited, as a menial worker such as the African American butler, a stereotypical role. He also appeared as the butler in Giant (1956). Whiting was best known to television audiences for his work as Silas on The Big Valley, a typecast but highly visible role. But how did he die and what was the cause of his death?
Early Life and Career
Whiting was born on September 21, 1910, in Canton, Mississippi, USA. He had a humble upbringing and started his career in show business as a singer and dancer in vaudeville and nightclubs. He moved to Hollywood in the 1940s and began appearing in films and television shows, mostly as a servant, porter, or waiter. He worked with some of the biggest stars of the time, such as Barbara Stanwyck, James Dean, Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and Doris Day. He also had a recurring role as Silas, the loyal and wise butler of the Barkley family, on the western series The Big Valley, which ran from 1965 to 1969. Whiting was one of the few African American actors who had a regular role on a prime-time show at the time.
Death and Legacy
Whiting died on October 22, 1984, in Los Angeles, California, USA, at the age of 74. According to Wikipedia, the cause of his death was stomach cancer, which he had been battling for a long time. He was survived by his wife, Dorothy, and his son, Napoleon Jr. He was buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hollywood Hills. Whiting left behind a legacy of being a versatile and talented actor who could play both comedic and dramatic roles. He also broke some of the racial barriers in Hollywood by portraying a dignified and respected character on a popular show. He is remembered by his fans and co-stars as a kind and gentle man who always had a smile on his face.
