Fred Pinkard, 84; Actor’s Career Spanned Radio, TV, Film, Theater

Fred Pinkard, 84, a veteran actor who began his career in radio in Chicago, died Aug. 3 in Los Angeles Community Hospital of natural causes.

A Navy veteran of World War II, he performed in the 1950 Chicago series of radio plays titled “Destination Freedom” celebrating black history. Pinkard reenacted the show 50 years later in Denver, reprising a segment: “Poet of Bronzeville -- the Story of Gwendolyn Brooks.” Joining him were original cast members, columnist Studs Terkel and musician Oscar Brown Jr.

Pinkard was well known for his work in theater in New York, Los Angeles and across the country. Among his performances were respected one-man plays that he wrote, including “Thurgood Marshall: Justice,” “Lift Every Voice” and “Rehearsal for the Gods.”

The versatile actor was also popular as a television guest star.