Why Colleagues Call Max Julien the ‘Scary Actor in Hollywood’

Max Julien, born Maxwell Banks on January 1, 1934, in Washington D.C., was a towering figure in Hollywood, known for his iconic role as Goldie in the 1973 cult classic *The Mack*.

Beyond his on-screen charisma, Julien earned the moniker “scary actor in Hollywood” among colleagues—not for fear of harm, but for his fearless defiance of the industry’s constraints. His unapologetic stance as a Black artist during a restrictive era made him a formidable, unpredictable force.

Julien’s journey began in a segregated America, shaping his fierce independence. After honing his craft at Howard University and in New York’s off-Broadway scene, he moved to Los Angeles, rejecting the stereotypical roles often forced upon Black actors—servants or criminals. His early roles in films like *Psych-Out* (1968) and *Uptight* showcased a raw intensity, but it was *The Mack*—which he wrote, co-produced, and starred in—that cemented his legend.

Playing Goldie, a stylish hustler navigating Oakland’s gritty streets, Julien didn’t just act; he embodied a cultural icon, influencing hip-hop giants like Tupac and Snoop Dogg.

What made Julien “scary” to Hollywood was his refusal to be controlled. In an industry that often demanded conformity, he openly criticized systemic racism, demanded equal pay, and exposed Hollywood’s hypocrisy.

During the Blaxploitation era, films like *The Mack* were criticized for glorifying crime and misogyny, but Julien defended his work as a mirror to urban struggles, not an endorsement. His confrontational style off-camera—calling out injustices and refusing to dilute his vision—ruffled feathers. To some, he was difficult; to others, a hero who rewrote the rules for Black creatives.

Julien’s versatility added to his intimidating aura. Beyond acting, he was a sculptor, novelist (authoring *Dark Clowns Kicking Ass*), and cloth designer, showcasing a creative depth that defied Hollywood’s narrow expectations.

He wrote and produced films like *Cleopatra Jones* (1973) and *Thomasine & Bushrod* (1974), taking control of narratives about Black life. His insistence on authenticity and ownership over his stories unnerved an industry unaccustomed to such autonomy from Black artists.

His sudden retreat from the spotlight further fueled his mystique. After dominating the 1970s, Julien prioritized privacy, stepping away from Hollywood’s glare while still mentoring younger creatives behind the scenes.

This enigmatic withdrawal, paired with his earlier boldness, left colleagues in awe and uncertainty—how could someone so influential reject fame’s allure? Until his passing in 2022, Julien remained a symbol of resistance, with a net worth of over $400,000 and a legacy woven into pop culture.

Max Julien was “scary” not for malice, but for his power to challenge and inspire. He cracked open doors for Black actors and filmmakers, proving they could demand more and own their narratives. His fearless spirit left an indelible mark, making him a revered yet daunting figure in Hollywood’s history.