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Yaphet Frederick Kotto (November 16, 1939 – March 15, 2021) was an American actor known for numerous film roles, as well as starring in the NBC television series Homicide: Life on the Street (1993-99) as Lieutenant Al Giardello. His films include the science-fiction and horror film Alien (1979), and the Arnold Schwarzenegger science-fiction and action film The Running Man (1987). He portrayed the main villain Dr. Kananga/Mr. Big in the James Bond movie Live and Let Die (1973). He appeared opposite Robert De Niro in the comedy thriller Midnight Run (1988) as FBI Agent Alonzo Mosley.
Yaphet Kotto was an influential American character actor recognized for his deep, resonant voice and intense screen presence across decades of film and television.
He achieved prominence for his performances as Parker in Alien, the antagonist Mr. Big in Live and Let Die, and Lieutenant Al Giardello in the series Homicide: Life on the Street. Explore the filmography of Yaphet Kotto on Mood.
He earned an Emmy nomination for his performance in the television movie Raid on Entebbe and a Golden Globe nomination for his supporting role in the film Blue Collar.