Few entertainers today are as accomplished or as versatile as Ben Vereen. His legendary performances transcend time and have been woven into the fabric of this country's artistic legacy. A Tony Award winner for his renowned performance in Bob Fosse's "Pippin," Vereen has gone on to solidify his place among Broadway royalty with starring roles in such Broadway productions as "Wicked," "Fosse," "Chicago," "Jesus Christ Superstar," "Hair," and "I'm Not Rappaport."
A legend not only on stage but also on screen, Vereen is best known for his iconic role as "Chicken George" in the groundbreaking television miniseries "Roots." He has guest starred on the television shows "Grey's Anatomy" (which won him a Prism Award), "Tyler Perry's House of Payne," and "Law and Order: Criminal Intent." He also appeared in the Emmy-nominated made-for-TV movie "An Accidental Friendship," for which he earned a NAACP nomination. Vereen also had a recurring role on the hit CBS sitcom "How I Met Your Mother."
In the face of his professional successes, Vereen has encountered his share of adversity. In 1987, his 16-year-old daughter Naja was killed in an automobile accident, a devastating event that shook him to his core. Then, in 1992, Vereen himself was in a serious car accident that led to a near fatal stroke. Vereen was later transferred to a neurological and rehabilitation hospital where he lived for seven months, where he had to undergo arduous physical and occupational rehabilitation.
Through persistence, an indomitable spirit and excellent healthcare, Vereen miraculously recovered ten months later and was back on Broadway. Vereen credits the timely care and treatment he received from his doctors, medical technicians, nurses, and therapists for his speedy recovery and ability to sing and dance again. It was this experience that has empowered Vereen to tour around the country at hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and hospital foundations and galas, sharing his message about showing up for life and the importance of quality care.
Adding to his string of hardships, in December 2007 Vereen was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. He quickly embraced his diabetes, speaking publicly about the disease whenever possible. Vereen started the diabetes campaign S.T.A.N.D. (StandforDiabetes.org) to encourage people to talk about the disease. He is also the spokesperson for sanofi-aventis, a world leader in diabetes care.
Putting his misfortunes behind him, Vereen has pushed forward and used the lessons he has learned to help inspire and encourage others. He has become one of the most requested speakers on the lecture circuit among audiences of all ages. His strong sense of social consciousness has enabled him to reach out to his audiences and convey to them a deep feeling of understanding. His topics range from overcoming adversity, arts in education, black history, motivational topics, recovery through physical and occupational therapy, and the importance of quality healthcare. He also acts as spokesman, spearheading a proactive and preventive campaign for those living with diabetes.
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