Actor and film producer Charles F. Porter, best known for portraying legendary NASCAR driver Wendell Scott in ESPN’s Wendell Scott: A Race Story and producing the 2025 film Finding Faith, has died at the age of 47.
Porter died Monday, November 2, following a lengthy battle with cancer, according to reports. His family confirmed his passing on November 4.
His wife, Candice Tab-Porter, announced the heartbreaking news in an emotional social media tribute, reflecting on their 18 years together and the life they built as a family.
In her message, she described Porter as a loving husband whose presence, strength, and influence would continue to live on through their family. The couple shared two daughters, Layla Rose and Juliette Jasmine.
Born in Oxford, England, Porter moved to the United States as a child. Before pursuing entertainment, he was a standout college football player who played defensive end at Duke University. However, a serious back injury ended his hopes of pursuing a professional football career and led him down a different path.
Porter eventually transitioned into acting, appearing in several popular television series, including The Parkers, House, Bones, and Without a Trace.
One of his most notable roles came in ESPN’s 2011 film Wendell Scott: A Race Story, in which he portrayed Wendell Scott, the pioneering Black NASCAR driver who made history in 1963 as the first African American to win a race in NASCAR’s premier series.
Beyond acting, Porter developed a career as a filmmaker and producer. He founded Black Bench Productions, a company focused on creating inspirational and faith-based entertainment featuring Black talent.
His production credits included the 2022 BET+ film A Miracle Before Christmas, the 2023 film Christmas Angel, and the 2025 faith-based drama Finding Faith, which starred Paula Patton, Loretta Devine, and Keith David.
Porter’s cancer journey began with a Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis in 2010. Despite undergoing treatment and a stem cell transplant, the disease returned multiple times. He later received CAR T-cell therapy in January 2022.
In a 2023 interview with Stand Up To Cancer, Porter reflected on how his experience with cancer had changed his outlook on life, explaining that the journey brought challenges but also a deeper appreciation for every moment.
Charles F. Porter leaves behind his wife, Candice, their two daughters, and other beloved family members.
His legacy will live on through his work in film and television, his commitment to creating meaningful stories, and the lives he touched throughout his journey.
Y’all Know What extends its heartfelt condolences to the Porter family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
