Donald Fullilove is a versatile American actor and voice talent whose career spans over five decades. Best known for his role as Goldie Wilson in the iconic “Back to the Future” trilogy, Fullilove has built a diverse portfolio across film, television, and animation. This comprehensive article explores his career, notable roles, and lasting impact on Hollywood and pop culture.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Donald Fullilove was born on May 16, 1958, in Dallas, Texas. He moved to Los Angeles as a youth and graduated from Crenshaw High School in 1976. Fullilove’s entry into entertainment came early—at age 13, he provided the voice of Michael Jackson in the animated ABC Saturday morning series “The Jackson 5ive” (1971–73). This early exposure to the industry set the stage for a prolific career in both live-action and voice acting.
Breakthrough Role: Goldie Wilson in “Back to the Future”
Fullilove’s most recognizable role is that of Goldie Wilson, the ambitious diner busboy who becomes mayor in the 1985 classic “Back to the Future.” His performance as Goldie Wilson is remembered for its optimism and comedic timing, encapsulated by the memorable line, “Mayor! Now that’s a good idea!” He reprised the role as Goldie Wilson III, a hovermobile salesman, in “Back to the Future Part II” (1989).
Key Facts:
- “Back to the Future” (1985) – Goldie Wilson
- “Back to the Future Part II” (1989) – Goldie Wilson III
Fullilove’s portrayal of Goldie Wilson is a touchstone in pop culture, symbolizing hope and progress, and remains a fan favorite at conventions and retrospectives.
Expanding Horizons: Filmography Highlights
Beyond “Back to the Future,” Fullilove has appeared in a variety of films, often lending his voice to animated features and supporting roles in live-action movies.
Notable Films
| Year | Film Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1980 | Scared Straight! Another Story | Smash |
| 1985 | Tuff Turf | Howard |
| 1985 | Basic Training | Typewriter Man |
| 1988 | Cadillac Dreams | Snake (Short film) |
| 1992 | White Men Can’t Jump | Jake |
| 1998 | Mulan | Hun Army (voice) |
| 2001 | Monsters, Inc. | CDA Agent (voice) |
| 2001 | Osmosis Jones | Doughnut (voice) |
| 2002 | Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron | Train Pull Foreman (voice) |
| 2006 | Curious George | Animal Control Man (voice) |
| 2008 | WALL-E | Axiom Passenger #7 (voice) |
| 2008 | The Hustle | Hose Man |
| 2009 | Up | Nurse George (voice) |
| 2010 | A Turtle’s Tale: Sammy’s Adventures | Green Turtle (voice) |
| 2011 | Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Masters | Gorilla Guard #1 (voice) |
| 2012 | Partysaurus Rex (Toy Story Toons Short) | Chuck E. Duck (voice) |
| 2013 | Monsters University | Phil (voice) |
Fullilove’s voice work in major animated films like “Mulan,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “WALL-E,” and “Up” has made him a familiar presence in family entertainment.
Television Career Live-Action and Animation
Fullilove’s television credits are as varied as his film work, including both live-action and animated series.
Animated Series
- The Jackson 5ive (1971–73) – Michael Jackson (voice)
- Kid Power (1972) – Randy (voice)
- Emergency +4 (1973–74) – Jason Phillips (main role, 23 episodes)
- American Dad! (2009) – Reginald the Koala, Tortoise, Cop (voices)
Live-Action TV Appearances
| Year | Series | Role/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1984 | Hill Street Blues | Blood/Junkie |
| 1985 | The Fall Guy | Guard |
| 1986 | What’s Happening Now!! | Junior |
| 1990 | Mancuso, FBI | John Gubbins |
| 1990 | Major Dad | 2nd Lt. Ned Nicholas |
| 1993 | Johnny Bago | Redwood |
| 1996 | Martin | Street Neighbor |
| 2003 | What’s New, Scooby-Doo? | Passenger #3 (voice) |
| 2006 | All of Us | Guest role |
| 2021 | Expedition: Back to the Future | Goldie Wilson |
Fullilove’s recurring role as Reginald the Koala on “American Dad!” is particularly notable, as the character became a fan favorite.
Voice Acting A Signature Talent
Donald Fullilove has become a go-to voice actor for animated films and television. His ability to bring warmth, humor, and distinct personality to his characters has led to roles in some of the most beloved animated features of the past few decades.
Major Voice Roles:
- Michael Jackson in “The Jackson 5ive”
- Randy in “Kid Power”
- Jason Phillips in “Emergency +4”
- Hun Army in “Mulan”
- CDA Agent in “Monsters, Inc.”
- Nurse George in “Up”
- Chuck E. Duck in “Partysaurus Rex”
- Reginald the Koala in “American Dad!”
His voice work extends to video games, such as “Transformers: The Game” (2007), where he was credited as Don Fullilove.
Personal Life and Other Pursuits
Fullilove is also a licensed aircraft pilot and has been involved in various community and educational projects. He was married to Tuluv Price-Fullilove, though they filed for divorce in 20238. He resides in Burbank, California.
In recent years, Fullilove has launched a streaming service, TVTU.NET, focusing on independent programming for arts education and entertainment6. He continues to make appearances at fan conventions and in interviews, reflecting on his career and the enduring popularity of his roles.
Impact and Legacy
Donald Fullilove’s career is a testament to versatility and longevity in the entertainment industry. From his early days as a child voice actor to his memorable live-action and animated roles, Fullilove has contributed to some of the most iconic films and TV shows of the past fifty years.
Why Fullilove Matters:
- Helped shape the character of Goldie Wilson, an enduring symbol of hope in “Back to the Future.”
- Brought life to animated characters in major Disney and Pixar films.
- Inspired new generations of actors and fans through his work and public appearances.
Complete Filmography Overview
Below is a consolidated table of Donald Fullilove’s key film and television roles:
| Year | Title/Series | Role | Medium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1971 | The Jackson 5ive | Michael Jackson (voice) | TV (Animation) |
| 1972 | Kid Power | Randy (voice) | TV (Animation) |
| 1973 | Emergency +4 | Jason Phillips (voice) | TV (Animation) |
| 1980 | Scared Straight! Another Story | Smash | TV Movie |
| 1985 | Back to the Future | Goldie Wilson | Film |
| 1989 | Back to the Future Part II | Goldie Wilson III | Film |
| 1992 | White Men Can’t Jump | Jake | Film |
| 1998 | Mulan | Hun Army (voice) | Film |
| 2001 | Monsters, Inc. | CDA Agent (voice) | Film |
| 2006 | Curious George | Animal Control Man (voice) | Film |
| 2008 | WALL-E | Axiom Passenger #7 (voice) | Film |
| 2009 | Up | Nurse George (voice) | Film |
| 2009 | American Dad! | Reginald, Tortoise, Cop | TV (Animation) |
| 2011 | Kung Fu Panda: Secrets of the Masters | Gorilla Guard #1 (voice) | Film |
| 2012 | Partysaurus Rex | Chuck E. Duck (voice) | Short Film |
| 2013 | Monsters University | Phil (voice) | Film |
| 2021 | Expedition: Back to the Future | Goldie Wilson | TV Series |
Conclusion
Donald Fullilove’s enduring presence in Hollywood, from his breakout as Goldie Wilson to his prolific voice work in animation, marks him as a significant figure in American entertainment. His career highlights the importance of versatility and adaptability in the industry. Whether on screen or behind the microphone, Fullilove’s performances continue to resonate with audiences of all ages, ensuring his legacy in film and television history.