Bernard Johnson

Actor: Bernard Johnson

Occupation: Actor
Active: '70s-'90s
Major Genres: Drama, Crime
Career Highlights: New Jack City, Manhunter, Scott Joplin
First Major Screen Credit: Shoot Out (1971)

Biography

Costume designer and choreographer Bernard Johnson worked on Broadway and in feature films such as The Bingo Long Traveling All-Stars and Motor Kings (1976) and New Jack City (1991). A native of Detroit, MI, Johnson was a child when he began dancing professionally. At one point, he danced with Josephine Baker; during the '60s he designed costumes for several of her tours. Johnson became the lead dancer with the New York Negro Ballet at age 19. At that time, he was also the troupe's costume designer. Upon reaching Broadway, Johnson danced in productions like On a Clear Day You Can See Forever. He has also danced at Harlem's Apollo Theater and on television. Johnson died of pneumonia on January 22, 1997, in New York City at age 60. ~ Sandra Brennan, All Movie Guide