Benz Antoine stands as a prominent figure in both Hollywood and international cinema, boasting a career spanning three decades with over 100 appearances in film and television. This Haitian-Hollywood actor, known for his versatility, is also recognized as the voice behind ‘Baptiste’ in the globally acclaimed video game Overwatch. Born Rubens Antoine in Montreal, Canada, on June 22nd, Benz Antoine is the eldest of three children, raised by his Haitian mother, Rose-Marie.
Initially setting his sights on economics, Benz Antoine enrolled at Concordia University after high school. However, his academic path took an unexpected turn during his freshman year when he switched to philosophy. It was during this period of intellectual exploration that the seeds of his artistic journey were sown, leading him to conceptualize and form the rap group ‘Da Freshmen’. Although ‘Da Freshmen’s promising prospect with Universal Records did not materialize into a formal contract, the experience laid a foundational understanding of the entertainment industry’s dynamics and fueled Antoine’s ambition.
The allure of the spotlight, briefly tasted with his rap group, lingered, subtly guiding the gifted rapper, often likened in appearance to LL Cool J, towards his true calling. In 1993, a pivotal moment occurred when he accompanied his then-girlfriend, an actress, to an audition. Reluctantly, Benz Antoine was persuaded to audition for a role as a businessman in a corporate video. This impromptu audition marked a significant turning point. The rapper swiftly transitioned into an actor, a career change he embraced wholeheartedly and never regretted.
Benz Antoine made his impactful entry into Hollywood with his big screen debut in Romeo Must Die, portraying the character “Crabman.” This role served as a launchpad for a series of appearances in major box office hits. His filmography includes notable movies such as Get Rich Or Die Tryin’, Four Brothers, and the critically acclaimed Bob Dylan biopic I’m Not There. He further solidified his presence in action cinema as Tyrese Gibson’s co-pilot in Death Race, portraying a confrontational and memorable character.
Beyond his film accomplishments, Benz Antoine has garnered significant acclaim for his work in television, particularly for his compelling portrayal of ‘Tyler Joseph’ in the French-language police drama 19-2. His depiction of a troubled, alcoholic beat cop in 19-2 was lauded as gut-wrenching and deeply impactful. Benz Antoine not only revolutionized this role but also seamlessly transitioned it into the English adaptation of 19-2 for the Bravo network. His exceptional performances in both versions earned him nominations for Best Supporting Actor, underscoring his talent and versatility across languages and formats.
Today, Benz Antoine divides his time between New York and Los Angeles, actively engaged in his thriving acting career. His journey from a Montreal philosophy student and aspiring rapper to a celebrated Haitian-Hollywood actor is a testament to his adaptability, talent, and enduring passion for performance.
