Trivia

Died before the release of his last three films, including Patton (1970).

When Dorothy Dandridge read for the title role in Carmen Jones (1954), Edwards read the part of Joe, although he was not considered for the role.

First black actor to play the role of a fighter pilot in a film. This was for Battle Hymn (1957). The next time a black actor played a fighter pilot was in Iron Eagle (1986) with Louis Gossett Jr..

Served in the United States Army during World War II.

Father James Valley Edwards was a laborer and religion instructor. Mother Annie Mae Johnson was a Baptist minister.

Acting career went off the rails because he refused to tell the FBI agents who were interviewing him on behalf of the House Un-American Activities Committee anything about Paul Robeson or anyone else.

After high school he fought Golden Gloves and then became a professional boxer before going to college.

After being discharged from the Army he became a member of Langston Hughes' Skyloft Players in Chicago.

Graduated from Knoxville College.

Taught acting and directed plays at the Ebony Showcase Theater in Los Angeles.

Toured the US in a string of socially conscious plays.

Inducted into The Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame in 1980.

Has one daughter: Eugia Edwards.