Charles F. Porter, the actor and producer known for supporting the 2025 film Find faith and playing the titular NASCAR phenom in ESPN Wendell Scott: A racing story, died Monday after a long battle with cancer. His death was announced by his wife, Candice Tab-Porter. He was 47 years old.
Porter was a multi-hyphenate in more ways than one. Born in the United Kingdom, he went to Duke University, where he played defensive end on the school’s football team. After a back injury derailed his NFL hopes, Porter lost 65 pounds and became an actor.
In the early 2000s, he made appearances in The Parkers, Near the house, Without a trace, Bone And Home.
In 2011, he landed the lead in the film Wendell Scott: a racing story. The ESPN TV movie was based on the story of Wendell Scott, who in 1963 became the first and only African American to win a NASCAR Cup race. Porter was the leader.
He also served as the lead and producer on Image Entertainment’s 2006 horror thriller. Nailed. Additionally, he had a small role in STX’s Jennifer Garner vehicle. Peppermint.
Last year, Porter produced Lifetime’s Find faith with Paula Patton, Stephen Bishop, Keith David and Nadine Velazquez. He also had a small role in the film as a bartender.
Porter is survived by his wife, Candice, and two daughters, Juliette and Layla.
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