A man of many talents, passions and hats, the late Harry Belafonte’s impact has transcended generations and left an indelible mark. A civil rights icon, entertainer and overall kind spirit, he has shifted the course of culture over the past decade as a blueprint to be emulated.
As the world pays tribute to his memory and immense legacy, here are a few of our favorite Harry Belafonte EBONY and JET covers.
July 1953
On this cover, Harry Belafonte made history as it was the first time a Black person had been seen on a publication alongside a white person. Here, Belafonte is featured alongside actor Tony Curtis (left) and actress Janet Leigh (who by the way are the parents of Emmy-award winning actress Jamie Lee Curtis.
September 1954
Carmen Jones is one of the most culturally significant films of the 20th century. The on-screen chemistry between Dorothy Dandridge and Harry Belafonte cemented them as Hollywood superstars and film royalty.
March 1956
A family man, Harry Belafonte was father to Shari Belafonte, David Belafonte, Adrienne Belafonte Biesemeyer and Gina Belafonte. In this cover, he is featured with his then wife Marguerite Byrd.
December 1960
Harry Belafonte was a man who wholeheartedly believed in liberation. He frequently showed up in spaces that have had historic meaning. In this image, he visited Israel and explored the nation in 1960.
February 1960
Out of the many things Belafonte is known for is his relationship with the late Sidney Poitier. The two were widely recognized as a dynamic duo for their art, activism and strong friendship.
April 2007
Harry Belafonte loved befriending the next gen and investing in their success. For this 2007 cover, he is joined by rapper and actor Common. They both personified what it meant to be “cool” and tapped into culture.
December 2015 – January 2016
Activism has no expiration date, and Belafonte knew this to be true through his personal experience. With the rise of a new wave of civil rights in the 2010’s, Mr. B continued to champion younger generations to make their voices heard. This EBONY cover, featuring him alongside actor Jesse Williams and actress Zendaya, proves that the fight for social justice is not bound by age.
