Renowned actor Bill Cobbs, best known for his roles in 'Night At The Museum' and 'The Bodyguard,' has died at 90 in California, surrounded by family, after a prolific career spanning over 200 roles.

Bill Cobbs, an Emmy-winning actor who appeared in over 200 films and television shows across a career that spanned nearly 50 years, passed away peacefully in the Inland Empire, California. Cobbs was a beloved figure in Hollywood, celebrated for roles that ranged from blockbuster movies to acclaimed TV series, and continued to act until his final days. His death marks the end of an era for an actor who was often described as a 'father figure' in the industry.

Cobbs was best known to audiences for his role as Reggie, the security guard in the 2006 film 'Night At The Museum', a part he reprised in the 2014 sequel 'Secret Of The Tomb'. He also made a lasting impression as Bill Devaney, Whitney Houston's manager, in the 1992 hit film 'The Bodyguard'. These roles, among others, cemented his status as a versatile actor capable of delivering memorable performances in both comedic and dramatic genres.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Cobbs moved to New York at the age of 36 to pursue his dream of becoming an actor. Before embarking on his acting career, Cobbs served as a radar technician in the United States Air Force for eight years. His late start in the industry did not hinder his progress; instead, it seemed to fuel his determination and contributed to the rich depth he brought to his characters.

Cobbs' breakthrough came in 1974 with his role in 'The Taking of Pelham One Two Three', a crime drama that showcased his talent and opened the doors to a series of significant roles in both film and television. His extensive filmography includes notable performances as Arthur Chaney in 'Air Bud', Moses the Clock Man in 'The Hudsucker Proxy', Dr. Elton Lloyd in 'Sunshine State', and a lawyer in Jennifer Lopez’s 2002 film 'Enough'.

In addition to his film work, Cobbs made an indelible mark on television. His TV credits included appearances on popular shows like 'The Sopranos', 'The West Wing', 'Sesame Street', and 'ER'. He also had substantial recurring roles in series such as 'The Slap Maxwell Story', where he appeared in 20 episodes, as well as 'The Gregory Hines Show', 'Homeroom', 'I'll Fly Away', 'The Others', and 'Go On'.

One of Cobbs' proudest achievements was winning an Emmy award in 2020 for Outstanding Limited Performance in a Daytime Programme for his work on the series 'Dino Dana'. This accolade highlighted his ability to continually deliver outstanding performances across different formats and genres, even in his later years.

Cobbs was respected not just for his talent but also for the mentorship and support he provided to younger actors. Actor Wendell Pierce referred to Cobbs as a 'father figure', reflecting the profound impact he had on those who worked with him. This sentiment was echoed by many in the industry who admired his dedication, work ethic, and generosity of spirit.

Even as he aged, Cobbs never stepped away from acting, continuing to take on roles and projects. He remained active in the industry, with several roles still forthcoming at the time of his death. His persistence and passion for his craft were evident to the end, making his contribution to the arts both extensive and enduring.

Bill Cobbs passed away on Tuesday evening at his home in Inland Empire, California, surrounded by family. A family member shared on Facebook that he died peacefully, presumably of natural causes. Cobbs' death leaves a void in Hollywood, but his legacy will live on through the vast body of work he leaves behind.

Throughout his illustrious career, Bill Cobbs proved himself to be a consummate actor, bringing depth, warmth, and authenticity to every role he undertook. His remarkable journey from Air Force radar technician to an Emmy-winning actor is a testament to his perseverance and talent. The world of film and television has lost a true icon, but Bill Cobbs' influence and contributions will be remembered for years to come.