Actor Nipsey Russell dies at 80 - Oct 4, 2005

I used to see him all the time on 'Hollywood Squares' when I was growing up.

"NEW YORK (AP) -- As the 'poet laureate of television,' actor and comedian Nipsey Russell delivered his signature four-line verse during frequent guest appearances on TV game shows and talk shows.

His impromptu lines and witty quips quickly secured his place as one of the first blacks to be a regular panelist on the shows.

Russell died Sunday afternoon at Lenox Hill Hospital at age 80, said his longtime manager Joseph Rapp. He had been suffering from cancer.

Although widely known for his television career -- including appearances on 'The Dean Martin Show,' 'Hollywood Squares,' 'The $50,000 Pyramid,' and 'Match Game' -- Russell also received critical acclaim for his role as the Tin Man in the 1978 film version of 'The Wiz.'" (more) CNN.com - Actor Nipsey Russell dies at 80 - Oct 4, 2005