Who is Dick Gregory?

Dick Gregory was an American comedian, civil rights activist, and commercial actor. Born in 1932 in St. Louis, Missouri, Gregory initially gained fame in the 1960s for his satirical humor and social commentary, which often addressed issues of race and civil rights.

In addition to his comedy career, Gregory also became a prominent activist in the civil rights movement. He participated in multiple protests and rallies, including the 1963 March on Washington, and was arrested several times for his activism. He also went on multiple hunger strikes to protest various issues, including the Vietnam War and apartheid in South Africa.

Throughout his career, Gregory also appeared in several commercials, utilizing his comedic talents to promote various products. He was particularly known for his work with Kentucky Fried Chicken, where he famously endorsed the fast food chain's Original Recipe chicken.

Gregory continued to perform and speak out on important issues throughout his life, earning numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to both comedy and civil rights. He passed away in 2017 at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most important and influential figures of the 20th century.