Duane Jones (1937-1988) was an American actor primarily known for his iconic role as Ben in George A. Romero's horror classic *Night of the Living Dead* (1968). His portrayal was groundbreaking for its time, featuring an intelligent, composed, and courageous African American protagonist, challenging prevalent racial stereotypes in cinema.

In addition to this seminal role, Jones is also remembered for his performance in Bill Gunn's arthouse vampire film *Ganja & Hess* (1973), where he played Dr. Hess Green. His acting was characterized by a restrained dignity and a strong screen presence, which allowed him to embody characters of depth and complexity. Although his filmography is limited, his cultural impact, particularly through the role of Ben, remains significant for African American representation in cinema.