James Baskett

Known for

Acting

Gender

Male

Born

February 16, 1904

Age at death

44

Died

July 9, 1948

From

Indianapolis, Indiana, USA

James Franklin Baskett (February 16, 1904 – July 9, 1948) was an American actor who portrayed Uncle Remus, singing the song "Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah" in the 1946 Disney feature film Song of the South. In recognition of his portrayal of Remus, he was given an Honorary Academy Award in 1948, making him the first Black male performer to receive an Oscar.