David Adkins, better known by his stage name Sinbad, is a celebrated American comedian and actor who rose to prominence in the 1990s. He is widely recognized for his stand-up specials on HBO and memorable television roles such as Coach Walter Oakes on A Different World and the lead in The Sinbad Show. Sinbad also starred in popular movies including Jingle All the Way and Houseguest.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | David Adkins |
| Date of Birth | November 10, 1956 |
| Place of Birth | Benton Harbor, Michigan |
| Nationality | American |
| Spouse | Meredith Adkins |
| Children | Paige Adkins, Royce Adkins |
| Occupations | Stand-up Comedian, Actor, Writer, Producer |
| Net Worth | Approximately $100,000 |
Early Life and Education
Born on November 10, 1956, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, Sinbad is the son of Louise and Dr. Donald Beckley Adkins Sr., a Baptist minister.
He grew up with five siblings and has Irish roots through his paternal grandmother.
Sinbad completed his high school education at Benton Harbor High School in 1974 and then attended the University of Denver, where he played basketball for two seasons before graduating.
Career
Following college, Sinbad joined the U.S. Air Force as a boom operator on KC-135 Stratotankers. It was during his military service that he began performing stand-up comedy in talent shows.
After leaving the Air Force, he pursued comedy full-time, gaining early recognition by finishing second on the TV competition Star Search in the 1980s.
This exposure led to television roles, including appearances on The Redd Foxx Show and The Cosby Show.
His big break came with the role of Coach Walter Oakes on A Different World from 1987 to 1991, which highlighted both his comedic timing and dramatic skills.
He later headlined The Sinbad Show and acted in numerous films throughout the 1990s and beyond.
Personal Life
Sinbad married his wife Meredith in 1985, and together they have two children, Paige and Royce. Known for his warm personality, Sinbad has also been involved in addressing social issues, particularly through his work on A Different World.
Net Worth
Sinbad’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $100,000, reflecting a modest financial standing relative to his long career in entertainment.
Selected Filmography
- A Different World (TV Series, 1987–1991) as Coach Walter Oakes
- The Sinbad Show (TV Series, 1993–1994) as David Bryan
- Coneheads (1993)
- Houseguest (1995)
- Jingle All the Way (1996)
- Good Burger (1997)
- Planes (2013)
Awards and Honors
Sinbad was a seven-time champion on the television talent show Star Search. His performance on A Different World earned him critical acclaim for blending humor with meaningful social commentary.
Additionally, he served as the host of Showtime at the Apollo starting in 1989, further establishing his reputation in comedy.
