Bebe Drake

Bebe Drake, born Beatrice Drake, is a talented American actress known for her extensive work in film and television. She hails from a family of four children, raised by Beatrice Lillian Hayes, a dedicated teacher and community activist, and Carl Everett Drake, who made history as Sacramento's first African American psychiatrist after starting his career as a postal worker. Bebe's educational journey took her through C. K. McClatchy High School, Sacramento City College, and California State University, Sacramento.

Drake stepped onto the Broadway stage in 1975 with Leslie Lee's play, *The First Breeze of Summer*, and made her television debut shortly thereafter with a role in a *Great Performances* production. She featured in two sitcoms, *Snip* (1976) and *Sanford Arms* (1977), although they were both short-lived.

With a prolific career spanning over 70 films and television shows, Drake made her film entrance in 1975 with *Report to the Commissioner* and *Friday Foster*. Notable performances include her role alongside Richard Pryor in *Which Way Is Up?* (1977) and appearances in significant productions like *The Last Married Couple in America* (1980), *Xanadu* (1980), and *Space Jam* (1996).

Her television credits include guest spots on classics like *Good Times* and *The Jeffersons*, and she gained recognition for her recurring role as Velma Gaines on *A Different World* from 1989 to 1993. Drake continues to be celebrated for her contributions to the entertainment industry.