Tim Reid, born December 19, 1944, in Norfolk, Virginia, is a versatile actor, director, and producer whose career has spanned over five decades. While best known for his roles in television series such as Simon & Simon, WKRP in Cincinnati, and Frank’s Place, Reid has also made a significant impact behind the camera, becoming a respected director and advocate for diversity in Hollywood. His contributions to both the screen and behind it have helped shape the entertainment industry, making him one of the most influential Black actors and creators in television history.
Reid’s career began in the 1970s, and he quickly rose to fame with his sharp comedic timing, affable screen presence, and ability to tackle both comedic and dramatic roles. His work in the 1980s, particularly his recurring role in Simon & Simon, brought him into the homes of millions of viewers, further establishing his presence as a talented and respected actor. Beyond his work as an actor, Reid has been committed to telling stories that resonate with underrepresented communities, ensuring that Black voices are heard and celebrated in the world of entertainment.
Early Life and Education
Tim Reid was born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, during the 1940s and 1950s, a period marked by racial segregation in the United States. Growing up in the segregated South, Reid developed a deep understanding of the struggles faced by the Black community, an awareness that would later inform much of his work in television and film. Despite the challenges of growing up in a racially divided society, Reid excelled academically and went on to attend Norfolk State College (now Norfolk State University), where he earned a degree in business administration.
After graduating, Reid embarked on a career in sales, working for DuPont. However, his passion for the arts, particularly comedy, soon took over. He teamed up with comedian Tom Dreesen in the late 1960s to form the comedy duo “Tim and Tom,” which became the first interracial comedy duo in the United States. Their groundbreaking partnership challenged social norms and explored racial issues through humor, though it was not without its challenges in a racially tense era. Despite the difficulties, Reid and Dreesen’s work broke new ground in the world of comedy and set the stage for Reid’s future endeavors in the entertainment industry.
Breakthrough Role on WKRP in Cincinnati
Tim Reid’s big break came in 1978 when he was cast as Venus Flytrap, the hip, smooth-talking disc jockey, on the hit television series WKRP in Cincinnati. The sitcom, which aired from 1978 to 1982, followed the eccentric staff of a struggling radio station in Cincinnati, Ohio. As Venus Flytrap, Reid became a fan favorite, thanks to his character’s laid-back demeanor, colorful wardrobe, and connection to the young, urban audience. Reid’s portrayal of Venus was notable for breaking away from stereotypical depictions of Black men in television, offering a cool, intelligent, and complex character who was also a role model to many young viewers.
During his time on WKRP in Cincinnati, Reid’s ability to infuse humor with heart made him one of the show’s standout performers. His character was more than just comic relief; Venus Flytrap often addressed social issues such as race, education, and cultural identity, providing depth to a character that might have otherwise been one-dimensional. Reid’s performance earned him critical acclaim and helped pave the way for more complex Black characters on television.
Role on Simon & Simon
Following the success of WKRP in Cincinnati, Reid landed a recurring role on the CBS detective series Simon & Simon. From 1983 to 1987, he portrayed Lieutenant Marcel “Downtown” Brown, a savvy police detective and ally to the Simon brothers, Rick (Gerald McRaney) and A.J. (Jameson Parker). Reid’s character was essential to the show’s crime-solving dynamic, often providing key insights and assistance to the private investigator duo as they tackled cases in San Diego.
As Lieutenant Brown, Reid brought his signature charm and intelligence to the role, making his character both reliable and relatable. His portrayal of “Downtown” Brown was a perfect blend of professionalism and down-to-earth wisdom, offering viewers a grounded and likable law enforcement figure. Reid’s chemistry with McRaney and Parker added to the camaraderie and humor of the show, making Simon & Simon one of the most popular detective series of the 1980s.
Reid’s time on Simon & Simon further solidified his reputation as a talented actor capable of bringing depth to supporting roles. His work on the show introduced him to a broader audience, and his character’s easygoing yet authoritative nature made him a memorable part of the series.
Frank’s Place and Directorial Success
In 1987, Tim Reid reached another milestone in his career with the creation of Frank’s Place, a critically acclaimed but short-lived sitcom that aired on CBS. Reid co-created, produced, and starred in the series, playing the titular character, Frank Parrish, a professor from Boston who inherits a Creole restaurant in New Orleans. Frank’s Place was groundbreaking in its portrayal of Black life in the South, offering a nuanced and authentic depiction of African American culture.
The show, which blended comedy and drama, tackled social issues such as race, gentrification, and cultural heritage with a sensitivity and realism that was rare for network television at the time. Reid’s performance as Frank Parrish earned him widespread praise, and the show received several awards, including a Primetime Emmy nomination. Despite its critical success, Frank’s Place struggled with ratings and was canceled after just one season. However, the show’s legacy endures, and it is often cited as one of the most underappreciated television series of its time.
Reid’s work on Frank’s Place marked the beginning of his directorial career. He continued to direct and produce television shows and films, using his platform to tell stories that reflected the diversity of the Black experience in America. Reid’s commitment to creating content that resonated with underrepresented communities earned him a reputation as a trailblazer in the industry.
Founding New Millennium Studios and Later Career
In 1997, Tim Reid and his wife, actress Daphne Maxwell Reid, took their commitment to Black storytelling to the next level by founding New Millennium Studios in Petersburg, Virginia. New Millennium Studios was the first full-service film studio in the state, and it provided a space for independent filmmakers to create content that highlighted African American stories and perspectives. The studio produced several films and television projects, helping to diversify the narratives being told in Hollywood.
Reid’s dedication to creating opportunities for Black filmmakers and actors extended beyond New Millennium Studios. He continued to work in both television and film, taking on roles that reflected his passion for authentic storytelling. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Reid appeared in a variety of shows and movies, including Sister, Sister, where he played Ray Campbell, the adoptive father of Tia Mowry’s character.
Reid’s influence as a director also grew, with him helming episodes of Once Upon a Time… When We Were Colored, Tremors: The Series, and other projects that allowed him to explore themes of race, identity, and social justice. His work behind the camera has been as impactful as his acting, as he has consistently championed diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry.
Personal Life and Legacy
Tim Reid has been married twice and is the father of four children. His marriage to actress and photographer Daphne Maxwell Reid has been one of the most enduring partnerships in Hollywood. Together, they have worked to promote diversity in film and television and have become role models for aspiring Black actors and filmmakers.
Reid’s legacy is defined not only by his contributions as an actor but also by his work as a director, producer, and advocate for underrepresented voices in Hollywood. His commitment to telling stories that reflect the complexities of the Black experience has made a lasting impact on the industry. Whether through his roles on iconic television shows like Simon & Simon and WKRP in Cincinnati or through his directorial work at New Millennium Studios, Tim Reid has consistently pushed the boundaries of what television and film can achieve.
Reid continues to work in the entertainment industry, leaving a legacy that will inspire future generations of actors, directors, and producers. His career, marked by both creative excellence and a deep sense of social responsibility, stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of representation in media.