Clifton Davis, the esteemed actor known for his roles in iconic television series, has graciously shared insights into his life and career as he approaches the milestone of 80 years. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Davis spoke candidly about his surprising journey through the decades and the secrets behind his remarkable appearance at this age.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/clifton-davis-061026-172fc53a9f164d10bfcfc310a6f0b6c0.jpg)
Davis, who is currently starring as Vernon Dupree in the CBS drama “Beyond the Gates,” expressed his disbelief at how quickly the years had flown by. “I often say, forget that you’re 80. Don’t think about it. It snuck up on me, actually,” he remarked with a hint of laughter, revealing that his vibrant spirit and aesthetic vitality stem from a combination of remaining active, mental engagement, and the loving support of his family.
The seasoned actor elaborated on the importance of staying busy both physically and mentally. “I just keep working, and I try to keep my mind active,” he explained. Davis also credited his supportive wife, who ensures he stays healthy and well. “If I need medicine, I have it, and I take it,” he noted, highlighting the impact of personal relationships on one’s well-being.
Davis’ role in “Beyond the Gates” has allowed him to explore deeper themes of love and connection through his character, a retired senator and patriarch of the Dupree family. The story unfolds in Fairmont Crest, a fictional affluent community just outside Washington, D.C., featuring a predominantly Black cast. With over 350 episodes under his belt, Davis reflects on how portraying Vernon has enriched his understanding of relationships and love.
“Every day, I’m learning something new,” he divulged. “This character, Vernon, has opened my eyes to a unique kind of love. While I love my family deeply, there’s a distinct connection between Vernon and his wife, Anita, that transcends the ordinary.” He went on to describe their relationship as one filled with shared experiences on multiple levels, including entertainment, philosophy, and politics.
When it comes to his legacy, Davis has a simple yet profound aspiration: to be remembered for his deep love for God, his family, and humanity. “I wish for people to remember me not only as a good actor but as someone who loves the Lord with all my heart and cherishes my fellow human beings,” he said, emphasizing that his commitment to acting is intertwined with his values.
He further added, “In each character I portray, I strive to infuse a sense of passion and sincerity, reflecting my love for others.” Despite the varied roles he has undertaken, Davis insists that the core of his performance is the desire to showcase compassion and truth.
Joining an ensemble cast that includes notable actors such as Tamara Tunie and Karla Mosley, Davis conveys his gratitude for the opportunity to work in a project that fosters diversity and collaboration. “When I joined ‘Beyond the Gates,’ I had no idea it would become such a hit,” he admitted. Davis attributed the show’s success to the collective effort of the hardworking cast and crew.
“The dedication from everyone— from the sound engineers to the makeup artists and the producers— is palpable,” he shared. “We all contribute our utmost, which has clearly resonated with audiences, as evidenced by CBS renewing our show for another two years. I am indeed thankful for that.”
In summary, Clifton Davis serves as a testament to the notion that age is but a number, one that can be defied through dedication to work, love, and personal wellness. His journey offers inspiration for many, showcasing that with the right mindset and support, it is possible to thrive and continue to shine well into one’s later years.
“Beyond the Gates” airs weekdays at 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT on CBS, bringing audiences engaging storytelling alongside the rich experiences of its seasoned cast. As Davis reflects on his career and life, one thing remains clear: his vibrant spirit and dedication to excellence will likely continue to capture hearts and inspire many for years to come.