Actor FOREST WHITAKER. He's one of the most respected character actors in Hollywood. He developed that reputation doing roles that got away from the stereotypes often given to black actors. WHITAKER was the British soldier kidnapped by the IRA in the "Crying Game." In "The Color of Money," he had a brief part as a pool hustler. He also starred in "Good Morning, Vietnam." His biggest starring role was portraying jazz great Charlie Parker in the movie, "Bird." WHITAKER is currently co-starring in Robert Altman's new film, "Ready to Wear (Pret-A-Porter)."
Copyright 1994 Fresh Air