Keith David: Biography, Net Worth, and Famous Roles

There’s a voice you’d recognize anywhere — deep, resonant, unmistakably Keith David – whether he’s playing a menacing villain or a beloved Disney character, his presence transforms the screen. This guide traces his journey from the New York stage to Hollywood blockbusters and video game consoles, covering the roles, the awards, and the man behind that voice.

Born: June 4, 1956 ·
Age: 68 (as of 2025) ·
Number of Roles: Over 400 ·
Emmy Awards: 3 wins, 6 nominations ·
Net Worth: Estimated $4 million ·
Known for: Voice of Goliath, Dr. Facilier, Spawn

Here are the key details about Keith David’s life and career, compiled across multiple authoritative sources:

What is Keith David most famous for?

Keith David is best known for his deep, commanding bass voice and an extraordinary range that spans more than 400 film, television, and video game roles (Television Academy). His career reached iconic status through voice work in animated series, Disney films, and video games.

What are Keith David’s most iconic roles?

• Goliath — the leader of the gargoyles in Disney’s Gargoyles (GargWiki)
• Dr. Facilier — the Shadow Man in Disney’s The Princess and the Frog (HB Studio)
• Spawn — the title anti-hero in the HBO animated series (Television Academy)
• Childs — the breakout film role in John Carpenter’s The Thing (1982) (BroadwayWorld)

How many movies has Keith David appeared in?

David has appeared in over 180 films, including Platoon, They Live, Crash, Requiem for a Dream, and 21 Bridges (HB Studio). When television and video game credits are added, his total credits exceed 400 (Television Academy).

The implication: David is one of the most prolific character actors working today, crossing genres and mediums with ease.

Does Keith David voice Mufasa?

Yes — Keith David voiced Mufasa in the 2019 photorealistic remake of The Lion King (HB Studio). This was a high-profile casting choice that introduced him to a new generation of Disney fans.

Who does Keith David voice in Disney?

• Dr. Facilier in The Princess and the Frog (2009) — the scheming voodoo villain (HB Studio)
• Mufasa in The Lion King (2019) — the wise lion king (HB Studio)
• Goliath in Gargoyles (1994–1997) — the Disney animated series (GargWiki)

What is Keith David’s role in The Lion King?

He played Mufasa, taking over a role famously originated by James Earl Jones. David’s deep voice brought gravitas to the CGI character in the 2019 remake.

The pattern: David’s casting in a legacy role signals that his vocal gravitas is industry-recognized.

Why is Keith David so popular?

His popularity stems from a combination of vocal talent, versatility, and sheer volume of work. David’s voice is instantly recognizable — a deep, resonant bass that commands attention (Television Academy). He moves seamlessly between genres: live-action drama, animation, video games, and documentary narration.

What makes Keith David’s voice unique?

His bass voice is described as “velvety but powerful.” It has made him a go-to narrator for Ken Burns documentaries such as Jackie Robinson, The War, and Unforgivable Blackness (Tom Todoroff Studio). That same voice earned him three Primetime Emmy Awards.

What are Keith David’s most famous voice roles?

• Goliath (Gargoyles) — considered his signature role
• Spawn (Spawn: The Animated Series) — a dark, gritty performance
• Dr. Facilier (The Princess and the Frog) — a villain with charisma
• The Arbiter (Halo series) — video game icon (HB Studio)

The pattern: David’s voice roles often define the character — he doesn’t just voice a role, he owns it.

How many times has Keith David been married?

Keith David has been married twice. He married Margie David in 1990 and they have two children together (Kemi Filani). His first marriage ended in divorce.

Who is Keith David’s spouse?

His current spouse is Margie David, whom he married in 1990. The couple has maintained a relatively private family life.

Does Keith David have children?

Yes, he has two children. Their names and details are not widely publicized, consistent with his preference for keeping family out of the spotlight.

What this means: David’s privacy paradoxically amplifies his public mystique, allowing his performances to drive his fame.

How rich is Keith David?

Estimates of Keith David’s net worth vary significantly by source. A 2024 report from HotNewHipHop (entertainment finance site) places it at $8 million, while a 2026 profile from Kemi Filani (celebrity news) suggests $4 million. Another estimate from a YouTube channel reports $7 million. The most commonly cited figure is $4 million.

What is Keith David’s net worth?

Given the spread, $4 million appears to be the conservative floor. The true figure likely depends on how one accounts for his extensive voice work residuals and live theater income.

How does Keith David earn money?

His income comes from film and television acting, voice-over work for animation and video games, documentary narration, and occasional stage appearances. He also teaches at studios like HB Studio (acting school).

The catch: With over 400 credits, even modest residuals can add up — but the exact breakdown is private.

Keith David’s career is a masterclass in longevity: he turned a distinctive voice and Juilliard training into a 45-year run that spans every corner of entertainment. For any young actor looking at an unpredictable industry, the lesson is clear: develop a skill that’s irreplaceable, then keep showing up. Or as David’s own work proves, sometimes the deepest voice wins the room.

For a deeper look into every major screen appearance he has made, check out this complete filmography guide that maps his most notable movies and TV shows.

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