Clifton Davis (born October 4, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois) is a veteran American actor, songwriter, and minister whose career spans more than five decades across Broadway, television, and film. Davis first gained national recognition as a songwriter, penning the classic hit “Never Can Say Goodbye,” which became a major success for The Jackson 5 and has since been recorded by dozens of artists. He transitioned into acting in the late 1960s after making his Broadway debut in Hello, Dolly!, later originating the role of Valentine in Two Gentlemen of Verona, a performance that earned him a **Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical in 1972. His early television breakthrough came with the sitcom That’s My Mama (1974–1975), which established him as a recognizable TV star. Davis achieved even wider fame starring as Reverend Reuben Gregory on the NBC comedy Amen (1986–1991), one of the most popular Black-led sitcoms of its era.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Davis remained a consistent presence in television, appearing in series such as Blue Bloods, The Good Fight, Billions, New Amsterdam, Iron Fist, and Godfather of Harlem, while also taking on film roles including the sports drama Any Given Sunday. On the stage, he continued his acclaimed theater work, appearing in productions such as Wicked and originating the role of the Sultan in Disney’s Broadway adaptation of Aladdin.

In addition to acting, Davis has been deeply involved in faith-based media and ministry, serving as a licensed minister and a longtime host on the Trinity Broadcasting Network’s Praise the Lord, while also hosting gospel specials such as Stellar Awards and Gospel Superfest. His work across entertainment and inspirational programming has earned him numerous honors and recognitions, including a Photoplay Award nomination and a Best Actor nomination at the International Christian Film Festival for the film Prayer Never Fails (2016).

In recent years, Davis has continued to appear regularly on television, with recurring roles in series such as Madam Secretary and guest appearances in contemporary streaming and network projects. As of 2025–2026, he has returned to daytime television prominence portraying Vernon Dupree on the CBS drama Beyond the Gates, introducing the legendary performer to a new generation of viewers while reinforcing his legacy as one of television and theater’s enduring talents.