What is Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs' net worth?
Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs is an American actor and singer who has a net worth of $1 million. Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs' career has spanned over five decades in television, film, and theater. He rose to national prominence in the 1970s with his portrayal of Freddie "Boom Boom" Washington on the hit ABC comedy series "Welcome Back, Kotter" (1975-1979), which showcased his natural comedic timing and charismatic screen presence. Beyond this iconic role, Hilton-Jacobs delivered a memorable performance as Cochise in the cult classic film "Cooley High" (1975) and appeared in the groundbreaking miniseries "Roots" (1977). His career continued to flourish with significant roles, including playing Joe Jackson in "The Jacksons: An American Dream" (1992) and appearing in series like "Alien Nation." A multi-talented performer, Hilton-Jacobs has also worked as a singer, director, and producer, demonstrating remarkable versatility throughout his enduring career in entertainment.
Early Life and Education
Born in New York City, Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs grew up as one of nine children born to Hilton and Clothilda Jacobs. His upbringing in New York City's public school system gave him firsthand knowledge of the urban educational environment he would later portray on screen. After graduating from the High School of Art and Design in 1971, he briefly attended Wilkes University before his acting career gained momentum.
Before finding success in acting, Hilton-Jacobs worked various jobs including delivery boy, florist, messenger, and department store stock boy. His first significant job was as a freelance artist and package designer, which introduced him to the creative world and eventually led to his interest in acting.
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Breakthrough Roles
Hilton-Jacobs began his formal acting education at Al Fann's Theatrical School and later with the prestigious Negro Ensemble Company, both experimental theater companies training promising Black actors in New York City. His early stage work included performances in plays such as "Cora's Second Cousin," "The Dean," "What the Wine Sellers Buy," "Mask in Black," and "The Exterminator."
His film debut came in "Claudine" (1974), but it was his role in "Cooley High" (1975) as Richard "Cochise" Morris that served as his breakthrough performance. This coming-of-age film about Black teenagers in 1960s Chicago showcased Hilton-Jacobs' dramatic range and put him on Hollywood's radar.
That same year, he was cast as Freddie "Boom Boom" Washington in "Welcome Back, Kotter," the role that would make him a household name. As one of the "Sweathogs" – a group of underachieving high school students – Hilton-Jacobs brought warmth, humor, and authenticity to the character over the show's four-season run.
Television Success
While "Welcome Back, Kotter" was still on the air, Hilton-Jacobs appeared in the landmark miniseries "Roots" (1977), further demonstrating his dramatic abilities. The series was a cultural phenomenon that reached unprecedented viewership numbers and tackled the history of slavery in America.
Following "Kotter," Hilton-Jacobs continued to work steadily in television. He appeared as Detective Sergeant Dobbs in the science fiction series "Alien Nation" (1989-1990) and took on numerous guest roles across various shows.
One of his most challenging and notable television performances came in 1992 when he portrayed Joseph "Joe" Jackson in "The Jacksons: An American Dream." This role showcased his ability to embody a complex, real-life figure in the miniseries about the famous musical family.
(Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)
Film Career and Directorial Work
Throughout his career, Hilton-Jacobs has maintained a presence in film, appearing in movies like "Angels of the City" and "31," Rob Zombie's 2016 horror film. While many of his film roles weren't as high-profile as his television work, they demonstrated his versatility as an actor.
In addition to acting, Hilton-Jacobs has worked behind the camera as a director and producer, expanding his creative contributions to the entertainment industry.
Musical Pursuits
Beyond acting, Hilton-Jacobs has pursued musical endeavors throughout his career. He sings, plays the piano, and writes music. He contributed vocals to Rick James' 1981 album "Street Songs" and has recorded solo material as well, showcasing another dimension of his artistic talents.
Legacy and Recent Work
Hilton-Jacobs' influence extends beyond his acting roles. As a homage to his cultural impact, the fictional housing project in Eddie Murphy's animated series "The PJs" was named the "Hilton-Jacobs Projects."
In recent years, he has continued to act regularly, appearing in the series "A House Divided," a role that earned him a 2021 Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Daytime Fiction Program. He has also contributed voice work to "The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder" (2022), showing his continued relevance in the entertainment industry.
Now in his seventies, Hilton-Jacobs remains active in the industry, embracing new challenges and roles while maintaining the same passion for performance that has defined his five-decade career.
Personal Life
Known to friends and family as "Larry," Hilton-Jacobs has maintained a relatively private personal life despite his public career. He has spoken fondly of the close bonds formed with his "Welcome Back, Kotter" castmates, particularly John Travolta, with whom he developed a close friendship during the show's run.
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