Robert Guillaume was an American actor and television director, best known for his role as Benson DuBois on the sitcom Benson. He was born on November 30, 1927, in St. Louis, Missouri, and gained fame for his distinctive voice and commanding presence. Guillaume's performance earned him two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. In addition to his work on television, Guillaume had a successful career in theater and film. He was a talented singer and appeared in productions such as Porgy and Bess. His contributions to the entertainment industry made him a respected figure, and he continued to work in various roles until his passing on October 24, 2017.