It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Guillaume, acclaimed actor, singer, and director, on Monday, October 24, 2017, at the age of 89. Robert was born in St. Louis, Missouri in 1927. He studied music at Washington University and went on to earn a Tony nomination for his performance in Canterbury Tales in 1968. Robert later won a Tony Award for his 1982 performance in Two Gentlemen of Verona. Robert's big break came when he was cast as Benson, a wisecracking butler, on the television series Soap in 1977. He reprised the role in its spinoff, Benson, and earned two consecutive Emmy awards for his work. He went on to make his mark in films and television, appearing in sitcoms such as The Fresh Prince of Bel Air and Family Matters, as well as dramas such as The White Shadow and Nurse. Robert also had several voiceover roles including The Lion King, where he voiced the character Rafiki. Robert was an inspiration to many, with a career that spanned six decades. He will be remembered fondly by family, friends, and fans.