Robert Guillaume Quotes

Powerful Robert Guillaume for Daily Growth

About Robert Guillaume

Robert Guillaume, born on November 30, 1927, in St. Louis, Missouri, was an influential American actor, singer, and voice artist, best known for his Emmy-winning roles in television sitcoms. Born as Robert Peter Williams to French-speaking Haitian parents, Guillaume faced racial discrimination early in life which later influenced his career choices. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War before pursuing a career in entertainment. Guillaume's acting journey began on Broadway, where he performed in various productions like "Purlie" and "Sherlock Holmes." However, it was his role as the villainous 'Caiaphas' in the 1965 film "The Greatest Story Ever Told" that caught the attention of television executives. His breakthrough role came in 1976 when he was cast as the butler 'Benson DuBois' in the ABC sitcom, "Soap." His portrayal earned him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 1979. Guillaume reprised the role in the spin-off series "Benson" (1979-1986), which also brought him Emmy success. Later, he lent his voice to the character 'Rafiki' in Disney's "The Lion King" (1994) and voiced 'Fula' in the animated series "Gargoyles." His final acting role was as 'Louis Armstrong' in HBO's biopic "Bessie" in 2015. Guillaume's career spanned over five decades, and he remained a vocal advocate for racial equality throughout his life. He passed away on October 24, 2017, leaving behind a rich legacy in the world of entertainment. His quote, "Success is never final; failure is never fatal. It's courage that counts," encapsulates his indomitable spirit and resilience.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I'm not a has-been. I've just been used more than new people."

The quote suggests that Robert Guillaume views himself as still relevant and capable, despite having had extensive experience or "use" in the past. He is implying that being perceived as a "has-been," which typically refers to someone who was once successful but is now considered past their prime, does not apply to him because he continues to be valuable and useful. Instead of being obsolete, he has merely been used more extensively than others, indicating a long and fruitful career.


"Success is never final, failure is never fatal. It's courage that counts."

Robert Guillaume's quote emphasizes the idea that success and failure are recurring experiences in life, neither being definitive or permanent states. Success should be appreciated but not overly celebrated as it can quickly fade away, while failure should be seen as a stepping stone rather than an insurmountable obstacle. The true measure of a person lies in their courage to continue striving and learning from both successes and failures, ultimately shaping their character and driving them towards further growth.


"It isn't where you come from; it's where you are going that counts."

This quote emphasizes that one's past, or origins, should not define their future potential. Instead, the focus should be on personal growth, aspirations, and the direction one is moving towards in life. It suggests that everyone has the ability to change their circumstances, break free from limitations, and create a better future for themselves.


"I'm a big believer in the power of positive thinking and hard work."

This quote emphasizes that positive thinking, combined with diligent effort, can be a powerful tool for success. It suggests that maintaining an optimistic outlook (positive thinking) alongside dedicated hard work can lead to significant achievements. In essence, the speaker is advocating for a mindset where one believes in their ability to achieve great things and consistently puts forth the necessary effort to make those aspirations a reality.


"You can't go around building a wall to keep people out, because people have a way of getting over walls, and then you give up part of your land. You just have to learn to live together."

This quote suggests that attempts at exclusion or isolation are futile because people will always find ways to connect, overcome barriers, and coexist. It is more productive and beneficial to foster understanding, cooperation, and mutual respect among diverse groups, rather than trying to physically separate them. Building walls metaphorically represents any form of division, whether it's geographical, cultural, social, or ideological. Instead, embracing inclusivity, empathy, and tolerance leads to a more harmonious and interconnected world.


Racism may be as systemic as it always was. It is the great problem of America. It's the one stumbling block that I don't believe was ever smoothed over.

- Robert Guillaume

Always, Over, Systemic, Block

I'm not trying to say that it never hurt or that I never felt its sting, but I can honestly say that I never blamed anybody for racism. I have considered it more of a manifestation of humanity's problem rather than my personal problem.

- Robert Guillaume

Racism, Manifestation, Blamed

My acting ability would have sent me back to the post office. It was my singing that got me jobs. Ironically, now, people think of me as an actor and don't know me much as a singer.

- Robert Guillaume

Think, Acting Ability, Post Office

I'm never a person who likes anything I've done. It's just the way it is. Twenty years later, I can look at something I did, and I'm still thinking, 'You know, that could have been better if you had done it this way or that way.

- Robert Guillaume

Thinking, Been, Had, Twenty

I've certainly experienced racism, but it has not made a great impact on me. I have always thought, as I got older and older, I was more in charge of who I was. What someone thought about me or said about me made less of an impression on me at very vulnerable times.

- Robert Guillaume

Always, Very, Certainly, Experienced

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