Born in Germantown, Pennsylvania, U.S.A, 12 July 1937. Served in U.S. Navy, 1956-60. Attended Temple University; University of Massachusetts, M.A. 1972, Ed.D. 1977. Married: Camille Hanks, 1965; children: Erika Ranee, Erinn Chalene, Ennis William, Ensa Camille, and Evin Harrah. Worked as stand-up comedian through college; appeared on Tonight Show, 1965; starred in TV's I Spy, 1965-68; guest appearances on shows, including The Electric Company, 1972; host and voices, Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids, 1972-79; star and producer, various television programs since 1984. Recipient: Four Emmy Awards; eight Grammy Awards for comedy recordings.