Harry Belafonte turns down <i>Porgy &amp; Bess</i>. <b>When</b>: 1959 <b>What happened</b>: The actor turned down the lead role because he said it demeaned black people. It was taken by Sidney Poitier, instead.

44 most controversial moments in music

Harry Belafonte turns down Porgy & Bess. When: 1959 What happened: The actor turned down the lead role because he said it demeaned black people. It was taken by Sidney Poitier, instead.

  • Photo: PA
  • Added: Apr 26, 2011
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