Trivia

Was the first African-American to "star" in a film.

Holding a law degree from Pennsylvania's Dickinson University, Clarence requested that he be addressed as Dr. Muse in later years.

An outspoken proponent for the positive treatment of black performers, Muse fought demeaning stereotypes for most his career. Ironically, he was a staunch supporter of the controversial black-oriented TV series The Amos 'n Andy Show (1951). He insisted that, despite the standard caricatures of the title players, the series allowed black actors to portray white-collar roles such as doctors, bankers, judges, and professors, generally not done in white-oriented series.

In his salad days, Muse appeared as an opera singer, a minstrel performer and a vaudeville actor. He also composed songs and wrote plays and sketches, and was considered a pioneer in the 'black theatre' movement.

Was the first black director of a Broadway show in 1943, "Run Little Chillun", described as a 'negro folk play with music'.

Died four days before the release of his final film, The Black Stallion (1979).

A member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Omega Chapter.

Was a founder of the Harlem Lafayette Theatre and a member of the Lafayette Players.

Inducted into the "Black Filmmakers Hall Of Fame" (1973)

Sunday, May 2nd, 1937: He was a special guest on the Los Angeles-based radio program "Help Thy Neighbor" hosted by Hal Styles.

Died one day before his 90th birthday.

His mini-bio says otherwise but Clarence Muse, who died in 1979, was not in "Casino" 1995.

Father: Alexander Muse; Mother: Mary A. Kellam.