Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/918838
himself to improving his craft, and his natural talents eventually helped secure his entry into Screen Actors Guild in 1964 and AFTRA in 1967. By the early 1970s, his determination — not to mention his relentless work ethic — began to pay off. In 1971, he became a series regular on PBS' The Electric Company, performing in 700 episodes over six seasons. On set, Freeman flexed his creative talents, taking on quirky and unique roles on the variety- style program. He also built lasting friendships, including a lifelong bond with fellow SAG Life Achievement Award honoree Rita Moreno. His first off-Broadway break came in 1967, and his theater career began to blossom by the mid-1970s. Continuing his work on stage, Freeman was a part of several award-winning productions, earning a Tony nomination in 1978 for The Mighty Gents and winning an Obie award in 1980 for Mother Courage and Coriolanus. Transitioning to the big screen, Freeman's work included roles in Who Says I Can't Ride a Rainbow! (1971), Blade (1973), Eyewitness (1981) and Marie (1985). His film career took off in 1987 when he received his first Oscar nomination for his performance in Street Smart. A second nomination followed two years later for his role as chauffer Hoke Colburn in Driving Miss Daisy, a role he originated in the show's off- Broadway production. The same year, Freeman teamed up with Denzel Washington for the Civil War drama Glory, demonstrating his acting chops 1. Freeman stars in the 1989 Civil War drama Glory; 2. Morgan opposite Jessica Tandy in 1989's Driving Miss Daisy. 1 1. TRI-STAR/PHOTOFEST; 2. WARNER BROS./PHOTOFEST 67 SAG -AF TR A | Special Issue 2018 | SAGAFTRA.org