Meshach Taylor Net Worth

Meshach Taylor: A Life in Acting and His Net Worth

Meshach Taylor was a celebrated American actor whose career spanned film, television, and stage. He is perhaps best remembered for his role as Anthony Bouvier on the popular sitcom “Designing Women.” This article delves into Taylor’s life, career, net worth, and the impact he made on the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Education

Meshach Taylor was born on April 11, 1947, in Boston, Massachusetts. His parents were Joseph T. Taylor, the former dean of students at Dillard University in New Orleans, and Hertha Mae Ward. The family later moved to Indianapolis, Indiana, where Meshach attended Crispus Attucks High School. It was during his high school years that he developed an interest in acting. After graduating in 1964, Taylor pursued dramatic arts at Wilmington College in Ohio and Florida A&M University. He left college before graduating, but later returned and earned a theatre arts degree from Florida A&M in 1993.

Career Beginnings and Early Roles

Taylor’s professional acting career began with a national tour of the musical “Hair.” He gained experience as a member of Chicago’s Organic Theater Company and Goodman Theatre. In Chicago, he received a Joseph Jefferson Award for his performance in Athol Fugard’s “Sizwe Banzi Is Dead” in 1977. His early film roles included “Damien: Omen II” (1978) and “The Howling” (1981). He also made guest appearances on several television series, such as “Lou Grant” (1979–1981), “The Incredible Hulk” (1979), and “Hill Street Blues” (1982; 1986).

“Designing Women” and Beyond: Taylor’s Rise to Fame

Taylor’s breakthrough role came in 1986 when he was cast as Anthony Bouvier, a delivery man turned design assistant, on the CBS sitcom “Designing Women.” The show, which also starred Dixie Carter, Annie Potts, Delta Burke, and Jean Smart, became a massive success, running for seven seasons and earning Taylor a Primetime Emmy nomination. His portrayal of Anthony was praised for its humor and heart, making him a beloved figure among viewers.

During and after his time on “Designing Women,” Taylor continued to work steadily. He appeared in films such as “Mannequin” (1987) and “Class Act” (1992), showcasing his versatility as an actor. He also starred on the sitcom “Dave’s World” (1993–1997). Taylor’s career included a Broadway appearance as Lumiere in “Beauty and the Beast” in 1998.

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Personal Life

Meshach Taylor was married twice. His first marriage was to Sandra in 1969, and they had a son named Tariq before divorcing in 1980. He then married actress Bianca Ferguson three years later, and they remained married until his death in 2014. Together, Meshach and Bianca had three daughters: Esme, Tamar, and Yasmine.

Death and Legacy

Meshach Taylor passed away on June 28, 2014, at his home in Altadena, California, at the age of 67, after battling colorectal cancer. His family was by his side. His death was mourned by fans and colleagues alike, who remembered him for his talent, warmth, and the joy he brought to his roles. A memorial service was held at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in the Hollywood Hills.

Awards and Nominations

Throughout his career, Meshach Taylor received recognition for his work. He was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for “Designing Women” in 1989. He also won three Viewers for Quality Television Awards for his role in the same show (1988, 1989, and 1990). In 2000, Taylor and his co-stars from “Jacks or Better” received a Jury Prize for Best Ensemble Acting at the RiverRun International Film Festival.

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