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Cicely Tyson
71quotes
Cicely Tyson: A Life of Unbridled Talent and Resilience
Full Name and Common Aliases
Cicely L. Tyson was born on December 19, 1924, in Harlem, New York City, to a West Indian mother and an African American father.
Birth and Death Dates
December 19, 1924 - January 28, 2021
Nationality and Profession(s)
American actress, model, producer, and activist. Tyson's multifaceted career spanned over seven decades, with notable achievements in film, television, theater, and philanthropy.
Early Life and Background
Growing up during the Great Depression and later in the midst of World War II, Cicely Tyson's childhood was marked by hardship and struggle. Her mother, Theolia Shipp, instilled in her a strong sense of self-worth and encouraged Tyson to pursue her dreams. Tyson's early interests lay in music and dance, which eventually led her to modeling and then acting.
Major Accomplishments
Tyson's breakout role came in 1964 when she played the lead in the Broadway production of Tambourines to Glory, earning her a Tony Award nomination. Her subsequent appearances on television, including East Side/West Side (1963) and Roots: The Next Generations (1979), solidified her reputation as a versatile and talented performer.
Notable Works or Actions
Throughout her illustrious career, Tyson worked alongside some of the most renowned figures in the entertainment industry. Her collaborations with notable directors, such as Sidney Poitier and Norman Jewison, resulted in critically acclaimed films like The Comedians (1967) and Sounder (1972). In addition to her on-screen work, Tyson was a dedicated advocate for women's rights, civil rights, and the arts.
Impact and Legacy
Cicely Tyson's impact extends far beyond her impressive body of work. She paved the way for future generations of African American actresses, challenging stereotypes and pushing boundaries in the entertainment industry. Her commitment to social justice and philanthropy has inspired countless individuals, making her a beloved figure both within and outside of Hollywood.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Cicely Tyson's legacy is cemented by her unwavering dedication to her craft and her unrelenting passion for social change. Her remarkable life serves as a testament to the power of resilience, perseverance, and determination in the face of adversity. As an iconic figure in American entertainment, Tyson's influence continues to be felt long after her passing, ensuring that her memory will endure as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
Tyson's own words, often quoted by those who admire her, reflect her spirit: "I do not think I am particularly brave. I just don't like being defeated." This quote encapsulates the essence of her remarkable life – a life marked by determination, courage in the face of adversity, and an unwavering commitment to making a lasting impact.
In conclusion, Cicely Tyson's extraordinary life serves as a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of one's passions. As we continue to draw inspiration from her remarkable story, it is clear that her legacy will endure for years to come, inspiring future generations to strive for greatness and never settle for anything less.
Quotes by Cicely Tyson
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I don't condemn anyone for making their choices. If someone chooses those roles, fine. But not for me. When someone stops me and says, You're the reason I became an actress, that lets me know I made the right decision.
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How do you project a character if you don't have a sense of where she is from? I've always just gotten on a plane to go to the area to get a sense of what it is like, to smell it, feel the earth, hear people talk, go to the marketplaces.
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When I attack a role, be it TV, film or stage, the first thing I say is, I don't want to know anything. If it's good I don't want to hear it; if it's bad I don't want to hear it. The only thing either thing can do is distract me. I like to stay focused.
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The gratification comes, for me, in the doing of it. And once I've done it, I can't do anything about it if it's good or if it's bad.
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I didn't want to be an actress; I never thought of being an actress because, as children, there were three of us - I was the middle child - and we spent our time in church from Sunday morning to Saturday night.
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My gratification in working comes from the preparation and the building of the character.
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As far as 'Jane Pittman,' I don't know that I could verbalize, to this day, what I felt once I got into that role. I did a tremendous amount of research. I need to feel as though I am in the person's skin.
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I don't think you can measure wealth in dollars and cents. I really don't believe that at all because there are some things that money cannot buy. One of them is health. And the other is security in your relationships and friends.
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I feel so guilty about the state of young people today. And I say that because our generation fought for everything. We fought to sit down at a counter, to sit on a bus. They were left with nothing to fight for.
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