Conflicting posts on the Facebook page of Meshach Taylor, best known for his role as Anthony Bouvier on the hit sitcom Designing Women (1986-1993), has led to confusion about whether the actor, age 68, is alive or dead. The confusion began after his family posted the following on his Facebook page Friday, June 27:
It is with love and gratitude that we sorrowfully announce that our darling, amazingly brilliant and dynamic, Meshach, the incredible father, husband, son and friend has begun his grand transition. Our friends who know and love us, please offer your prayers for his peace and blazing light as he ascends to the heavens. Those who need to call the family please do. Those who desire to post memories, we are open and graciously accepting all gestures of peace. Love,
the Taylor Family Tariq Taylor Yasmine Taylor Tamar Lashae Taylor Esme Taylor
Almost immediately, his Facebook page ignited with RIP posts and remembrances, with some objecting to the “premature” pronouncement of death.
“I am usually better than this in checking all facts before posting here on FB. Our friend, Meshach Taylor is still in this great thing called life. He is terminally ill, but still with us,” wrote Candace Hunter.
At this posting, no news outlet had reported the death of the Boston-born Taylor, who turned 67 on April 11. The Florida A&M graduate got his first big break with the national tour of Hair. After spending many years in Chicago, where he enjoyed acclaimed theater roles and even hosted a television show, Taylor made his way to L.A. in 1987 and later landed his career-changing role for which he received an Emmy nomination. After Designing Women, Taylor made several appearances on stage, including his Broadway debut with Toni Braxton in Beauty and the Beast in 1998, television and film.
In 1983, Taylor married Bianca Ferguson and subsequently fathered four children (daughters Tamar Taylor, Esme Taylor, Yasmine Taylor and son Tariq Taylor), in addition to later becoming a grandfather of four.