Yaphet Kotto Bio: Wife, Age, Cause Of Death, Net Worth, Children, Movies, Daughter, Movies, TV Shows

Biography

Yaphet Frederick Kotto, born on November 15, 1939, in New York City, was a prominent American actor celebrated for his commanding presence and versatile performances across film, television, and theater. With Cameroonian and African-American heritage, Kotto infused a unique depth into his characters, often portraying complex roles.

He gained widespread acclaim for his portrayal of the villain Mr. Big in the James Bond film “Live and Let Die” (1973). Kotto‘s talent also shone in the realm of science fiction, notably as Detective Lieutenant Mbutu in “Alien” (1979) and Captain Davenport in the critically acclaimed TV series “Homicide: Life on the Street” (1993-1999), for which he received an NAACP Image Award.

Over his illustrious career, Kotto appeared in more than 80 films and numerous television shows, demonstrating his versatility across various genres, from drama to action. His deep, resonant voice and intense acting style made a lasting impression in every role he undertook. Yaphet Kotto passed away on March 15, 2021, leaving a legacy of powerful performances that continue to be celebrated.

Yaphet Kotto
Wiki Facts & About Data
Real Name:	Yaphet Frederick Kotto
Stage Name:	Yaphet Kotto
Born:	15 November 1939 (age 81 years old)
Place of Birth:	New York, New York, United States
Died:	15 March 2021 (age 81 years), Manila, Philippines
Nationality:	American
Education:	N/A
Height:	1.9 m
Parents:	Avraham Kotto, Gladys Marie
Siblings:	N/A
Spouse:	Tessie Sinahon (m. 1998–2021), Antoinette Pettyjohn (m. 1975–1996), Rita Ingrid Dittman (m. 1962–1975)
Girlfriend • Partner:	N/A
Children:	Fred Kotto
Occupation:	Actor • TV Personality
Net Worth:	$5 million (USD)

Early Life & Education

Yaphet Kotto was born on November 15, 1939, in Harlem, New York City. His early life was enriched by a diverse cultural heritage. His father, Abraham Kotto, was a Cameroonian immigrant of royal lineage, with his great-grandfather having been a king in pre-colonial times. His mother, Gladys Marie, was of African-American descent, further contributing to Kotto’s multifaceted ethnic background. This blend of African and American cultures played a pivotal role in shaping his identity and career.

Yaphet Kotto identified as Jewish, a faith imparted to him by his father. In interviews, he expressed that, had he not pursued acting, he might have considered becoming a rabbi, highlighting the significance of his religious upbringing.

While specific details about his siblings and early education are less documented, Kotto’s innate talents drew him toward the performing arts. His commanding physical presence and intense acting style began to develop early on, likely influenced by his rich cultural background and the life stories shared by his family.

Kotto’s entry into acting was not through a conventional educational route in drama or film. Instead, he gained his artistic education through practical experience, starting in theater before moving on to film and television.

Career

Yaphet Kotto‘s journey began in the theater, where he refined his craft in New York before making his film debut in the early 1960s. His early film roles included significant parts in “4 for Texas” (1963) and “Nothing But a Man” (1964), which were noteworthy for their dignified and complex portrayals of Black characters during an era when such representations were scarce.

His major breakthrough came in 1973 with his performance as Dr. Kananga/Mr. Big in the James Bond film “Live and Let Die.” This role not only highlighted his acting prowess but also showcased his ability to dominate the screen as a villain with depth, defying traditional stereotypes.

After “Live and Let Die,” Kotto‘s career thrived as he took on a series of remarkable roles. He portrayed the tough, no-nonsense Detective Lieutenant Mbutu in Ridley Scott‘s “Alien” (1979), contributing to the film’s status as a sci-fi classic. His performances in films like “Blue Collar” (1978), alongside Richard Pryor and Harvey Keitel, emphasized his talent for authentically portraying working-class characters.

Kotto also significantly impacted television, particularly as Captain Al Giardello in the acclaimed series “Homicide: Life on the Street” (1993-1999). His portrayal of Giardello, a compassionate yet firm police captain, garnered him an NAACP Image Award and widespread respect.

In his later years, Kotto continued to work, often taking on roles that utilized his distinctive voice and commanding presence. He appeared in series like “The Practice” and “Law & Order: SVU,” and lent his voice to video games such as “Fallout: New Vegas.”

Social Media

• Facebook: Yaphet Kotto
• IMDb: Yaphet Kotto

Personal Life

Yaphet Kotto was first married to Rita Ingrid Dittman, a German immigrant, in 1959. They had three children together before divorcing in 1976. From his marriage to Rita, Kotto had three children, though their names are not widely publicized. One of his children is Fredrick Kotto, also known as Fred Kotto.

In 1998, Kotto married Tessie Sinahon, a businesswoman and event planner based in the Philippines. This marriage lasted until his death in 2021, showcasing a nearly 23-year partnership. He was also married to Antoinette Pettyjohn from 1975 to 1996.

Yaphet Kotto stood at 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters), a stature that often added to his imposing screen presence. This fits many of his roles, from villains to authoritative figures like Captain Giardello in “Homicide: Life on the Street.”

Tessie Sinahon, born in the 1960s, became a noted figure in the Philippines for her entrepreneurial skills, especially in event planning. Together with Kotto, they operated an artists’ retreat resort in Southern Leyte, Philippines, named “The Running Man Institute.” This venture reflected their creativity, holistic health, and community engagement interests.

Net Worth

Yaphet Kotto, celebrated for his iconic performances in films like “Live and Let Die,” “Alien,” and the TV series “Homicide: Life on the Street,” had amassed a net worth of $5 million by the time of his passing in 2021.

His career spanned several decades, beginning in the 1960s, during which he made significant contributions to theater, cinema, and television. Kotto‘s roles were varied, ranging from villains to authoritative figures, most notably as Lieutenant Al Giardello in “Homicide: Life on the Street.”

This role earned him critical acclaim and significantly enhanced his financial status. His earnings were further boosted by his extensive work across film, television, and video games, with his final known voice role in “Alien: Isolation” in 2014.

Filmography

Yaphet Kotto is remembered for his impactful performances in both film and television. Here are some of his top movies and TV shows:

Movies

• Live and Let Die (1973) – His role as Dr. Kananga/Mr. Big in this James Bond film was a breakthrough, highlighting his ability to portray a complex villain.
• Alien (1979) – As Detective Lieutenant Mbutu, Kotto added depth to the crew dynamics in this sci-fi horror classic.
• Blue Collar (1978) – Starring alongside Richard Pryor and Harvey Keitel, he played a working-class man caught in a web of crime and corruption, showcasing his dramatic range.
• Raid on Entebbe (1976) – He portrayed Idi Amin, the Ugandan dictator, in this television movie, which earned him an Emmy nomination.
• The Star Chamber (1983) – Playing a judge who takes justice into his own hands, Kotto delivered another memorable performance.
• Midnight Run (1988) – A brief but notable appearance as a hitman, adding humor and tension to this comedic action film.
• Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991) – He portrayed a father in this installment of the “A Nightmare on Elm Street” series.

TV Shows

• Homicide: Life on the Street (1993-1999) – Arguably his most recognized TV role, as Captain Al Giardello, where he not only portrayed authority but also humanity and warmth, earning him an NAACP Image Award.
• The Practice (2003-2004) – He played Judge Harold Hiller, bringing gravitas to the courtroom drama series.
• The A-Team (1984) – Guest starred as an ex-CIA operative in several episodes, adding depth to the show’s action-packed narrative.
• Law & Order: SVU (2004) – A guest role that showcased his ability to step into the intense drama of the series.
• Southland (2009-2010) – He played a retired cop, bringing his seasoned acting skills to this gritty cop drama.