The name of the central character in the iconic 1972 blaxploitation film Superfly, often referred to as "the priest" due to his name, is Youngblood Priest.
Who is Youngblood Priest?
Youngblood Priest is the protagonist of Superfly, a New York City cocaine dealer who yearns to leave his dangerous lifestyle behind. Despite the common use of the term "priest," the character's name is indeed Priest, and he is not involved in any religious capacity. His story revolves around his efforts to make one last major drug deal to secure enough money for a clean break from the streets.
The Actor Behind the Icon: Ron O'Neal
The compelling character of Youngblood Priest was brought to life by the talented American actor, director, and screenwriter Ron O'Neal. O'Neal (September 1, 1937 – January 14, 2004) rose to widespread fame specifically for his powerful portrayal of Youngblood Priest in the original Super Fly (1972). He reprised his role in the 1973 sequel, Super Fly T.N.T.
O'Neal's performance as Priest became synonymous with the blaxploitation era, capturing the complexities of a character navigating the moral ambiguities of the drug trade while striving for a better life. His portrayal contributed significantly to the film's cultural impact and its lasting legacy within cinema history.
Key Details of the Character
For a quick overview, here are some essential details about Youngblood Priest:
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Character Name | Youngblood Priest |
| Actor | Ron O'Neal |
| Film | Super Fly (1972), Super Fly T.N.T. (1973) |
| Role | Protagonist, New York City cocaine dealer |
| Genre | Blaxploitation |
