For many of us who grew up watching television in the 1990s, the name Artimus Bentley brings forth a wave of fond recollections. He was, you know, that really familiar face who brought so much warmth and laughter to our screens. Most notably, Artimus Lamont Bentley, often simply called Lamont Bentley, truly captured hearts with his portrayal of Hakeem Campbell on the popular comedy series, Moesha. His work on that show, as a matter of fact, made him a household name, creating a character that felt very much like a friend to countless viewers.
Yet, behind the bright lights and the comedic timing, Artimus Bentley's story is one that holds a certain depth, marked by a promising career that began quite early. He appeared in more than a dozen films and television shows, showcasing a talent that was clearly growing. His ability to connect with an audience, to make them laugh and feel, was something quite special, really.
This piece will take a look at the life and career of Artimus Bentley, reflecting on his journey from a child actor to a beloved sitcom star. We'll explore his early days, his rise to fame, and, sadly, the unexpected turn his life took. It's a way, perhaps, to keep his memory alive and to appreciate the contributions he made to our entertainment landscape, even if his time with us was, in a way, rather short.
Table of Contents
- The Life and Times of Artimus Bentley
- Personal Details and Bio Data
- The Tragic Loss of a Promising Talent
- His Lasting Impact and Memory
- Frequently Asked Questions About Artimus Bentley
The Life and Times of Artimus Bentley
Early Beginnings and a Dream
Artimus Lamont Gardison Bentley, as he was fully named, began his life in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on October 25, 1973. His early years were, you know, shaped by his upbringing on Milwaukee's north side, alongside his sister. He was raised by his single mother, Loyce Bentley, who herself had dreams of a career as a professional singer. This shared artistic spirit, perhaps, influenced young Artimus from a very young age. It's interesting to consider how a parent's aspirations might, in some respects, gently guide a child's path, and for Artimus, that path led straight into the world of acting.
At some point, the family made a significant move to Los Angeles. This relocation was, in fact, driven by his mother Loyce's pursuit of her singing career. It was in this new, bustling environment that Artimus himself started his own journey in the entertainment business. He began his career as a child actor, appearing in various productions. This early start meant that by the time he became a familiar face, he already had some experience under his belt, which is quite something for someone so young, actually.
Finding Fame as Hakeem Campbell
While Artimus Bentley had a history of acting from his childhood, it was his role on the comedy series Moesha that truly made him a household name. He portrayed Hakeem Campbell, the best friend of the show's main character, Moesha. Hakeem was, you know, often the source of comedic relief, with his memorable eating habits and his generally good-natured, if sometimes clumsy, personality. His character became an integral part of the show's appeal, resonating with a wide audience who tuned in week after week.
The success of Moesha brought Artimus Bentley into the homes of millions, solidifying his place in 90s pop culture. People recognized him everywhere, and his character Hakeem became, basically, synonymous with the show itself. This kind of recognition is, you know, a pretty big deal for any actor, and it showed just how much his performance connected with people. He really made that role his own, bringing a genuine charm to the screen that was, in a way, quite infectious.
Beyond Moesha: Other Roles
While Hakeem Campbell remains his most iconic role, Artimus Bentley's acting career was, actually, more extensive than just Moesha. He appeared in more than a dozen films and television shows throughout his life. For instance, he was also known for his role as Rashad in another production. This shows that his talent wasn't limited to just one character or one type of acting, which is something to appreciate.
His work spanned different genres and formats, demonstrating his versatility as an actor. He was, in a way, a promising talent who continued to build on his experiences. Even though his time in the industry was cut short, the body of work he left behind, including those other roles, gives us a fuller picture of his capabilities. It’s a reminder that he was, you know, more than just Hakeem; he was an actor with a growing range, always working on his craft.
Personal Details and Bio Data
To help paint a clearer picture of Artimus Bentley, here are some key details about his life, compiled from available information. This table provides, basically, a quick reference for those curious about the specifics of his background and career.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Artimus Lamont Gardison Bentley |
| Date of Birth | October 25, 1973 |
| Place of Birth | Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA |
| Parents | Loyce Bentley (Mother), Donald L. Bentley (Father) |
| Siblings | One sister (name not specified in provided text) |
| Residence | North Hollywood, California (at time of death) |
| Best Known For | Hakeem Campbell on Moesha |
| Other Notable Roles | Rashad (in another production) |
| Date of Death | January 19, 2005 |
| Age at Death | 31 years old |
| Cause of Death | Fatal single-person car accident |
The Tragic Loss of a Promising Talent
The news that actor Artimus Lamont Bentley, also known as “Hakeem,” sadly lost his life suddenly came as a shock to so many people. It was, you know, a truly heartbreaking moment for fans and colleagues alike. He passed away early on January 19, 2005, at the age of just 31 years old. This unexpected event meant that a promising career, which had already brought so much joy to others, was cut short far too soon.
The circumstances of his passing were particularly somber. Artimus Bentley died in a fatal single-person car accident. This kind of sudden loss is, basically, incredibly difficult to process, especially when it involves someone who was still so young and had so much more to give. The fact that it was a single-person accident adds a layer of solemnity to the event, leaving many to reflect on the fragility of life. His passing was, in a way, a stark reminder of how quickly things can change, and it left a noticeable void in the hearts of those who admired his work, and, you know, those who knew him personally.
His death, which occurred in January 2005, meant that he was just a little over 31 years old, having been born in October 1973. This short span of time, though, was filled with significant achievements and a lasting impact on popular culture. The news of his death spread quickly, and it's something that, even today, brings a sense of sadness to those who remember his contributions to television and film. It's a testament, perhaps, to the genuine connection he formed with his audience, which is quite a powerful thing, really.
His Lasting Impact and Memory
Even though Artimus Bentley's life was relatively brief, his impact on television viewers and the entertainment world continues to be felt. His role as Hakeem Campbell on Moesha made him a beloved figure, someone whose performances are still remembered and enjoyed today. The show itself remains a significant piece of 90s television, and Hakeem's character is, you know, an integral part of its enduring appeal. People often revisit these shows, and when they do, Artimus Bentley is right there, bringing laughter and warmth to their screens, which is pretty cool.
For many, his work evokes a sense of nostalgia, bringing back memories of a particular era in television. His ability to create a character that felt so real and relatable is, actually, a true mark of his talent. The way he embodied Hakeem, with all his quirks and charms, means that the character, and by extension Artimus himself, continues to live on in the collective memory of fans. It's a powerful thing, you know, to leave such a lasting impression through your work, even after you're gone.
Today, people still look up information about Artimus Bentley, searching for details about his life and career. Online platforms, for instance, still carry profiles and discussions about him, showing that interest in his legacy persists. It's a way for people to connect with his memory, to learn more about the person behind the character. His story, in a way, serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life but also of the lasting power of art and performance. You can learn more about his professional journey and filmography by looking up reputable sources that cover his career, such as those that track actors' appearances in films and television shows. For example, you can often find comprehensive lists of his movies and TV shows on sites dedicated to film history, or you can check out details about his life and roles on various biographical platforms, which is pretty neat. Learn more about Artimus Bentley on our site, and link to this page here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Artimus Bentley
What happened to Artimus Bentley?
Artimus Bentley, also widely known as Lamont Bentley, sadly lost his life in a fatal single-person car accident. This tragic event occurred early on January 19, 2005. The news came as a shock to many who knew him from his acting roles, especially his popular character Hakeem on Moesha. His passing was, you know, a very sudden and unexpected loss for the entertainment community and his fans.
How old was Artimus Bentley when he died?
Artimus Bentley was 31 years old when he passed away. He was born on October 25, 1973, and his death occurred on January 19, 2005. So, to be precise, he had just turned 31 a few months before the accident. It's a rather young age to leave us, and that's something many people remember about his story, actually.
What was Artimus Bentley known for?
Artimus Bentley was best known for his role as Hakeem Campbell on the popular comedy series Moesha. This role, in fact, made him a household name and cemented his place in 90s television. Beyond Moesha, he also appeared in more than a dozen other films and television shows, including a role as Rashad. However, it was his portrayal of Hakeem that truly resonated with audiences and, you know, remains his most famous contribution.
