COLMAN DOMINGO

Colman Domingo: A Multifaceted Artist Redefining the Stage and Screen

Colman Jason Domingo, born on November 28, 1969, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is an acclaimed American actor, playwright, director, and producer. Over the past three decades, he has emerged as one of the most dynamic and influential figures in contemporary theater and film. Known for his commanding stage presence, rich storytelling, and advocacy for underrepresented voices, Domingo has garnered numerous accolades, including Tony and Academy Award nominations, an Emmy Award, and recognition as one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024.

Early Life and Education

Raised in a working-class family in Philadelphia, Domingo was the third of four children. His mother, Edith Bowles, was a homemaker and bank employee, while his stepfather, Clarence, worked as a floor sander. Domingo attended Overbrook High School before earning a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Temple University. After graduating in 1991, he relocated to San Francisco to pursue a career in theater, marking the beginning of his journey in the performing arts. 

Theater Career and Playwriting

Domingo's theatrical career began with notable performances in Broadway productions such as Well (2005) and Passing Strange (2008). He gained widespread acclaim for his role as Mr. Bones in the musical The Scottsboro Boys (2010), earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical. His playwriting credits include A Boy and His Soul (2010), Dot (2015), and Fat Ham (2023), the latter of which received a Tony Award nomination for Best Play. His works often explore themes of identity, family, and resilience, resonating with diverse audiences. 

Film and Television Success

Domingo's film career encompasses a range of roles in critically acclaimed films such as Selma (2014), If Beale Street Could Talk (2018), Ma Rainey's Black Bottom (2020), and Zola (2021). In 2023, he starred in the biopic Rustin, portraying civil rights leader Bayard Rustin, a role that earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. He also starred in Sing Sing (2023), a film inspired by the Rehabilitation Through the Arts program, which garnered him a second consecutive Academy Award nomination. On television, Domingo is recognized for his portrayal of Victor Strand in AMC's Fear the Walking Dead (2015–2023) and Ali in HBO's Euphoria (2019–present), for which he won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2022. 

Personal Life and Advocacy

Domingo has been married to his husband, Raúl Domingo, since 2014. Together, they reside in Los Angeles, California. Beyond his artistic endeavors, Domingo is an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice, and the inclusion of marginalized voices in the arts. He serves on the Board of Directors for The Gotham Film & Media Institute and has been a faculty member at both the Juilliard School and the Yale School of Drama.

Legacy and Impact

Colman Domingo's multifaceted career continues to inspire and influence the entertainment industry. Through his performances, writings, and advocacy, he challenges societal norms and fosters a more inclusive and diverse cultural landscape. His work not only entertains but also educates and empowers, leaving an indelible mark on both the stage and screen.