Anecdotes

George Lucas originally cast Turman as Han Solo in La guerre des étoiles (1977), but eventually changed his mind and cast Harrison Ford instead.

Co-wrote with then-wife Aretha Franklin, the song "I'm Your Speed" which appeared on her album "Almighty Fire" (1978).

A cowboy and rodeo performer, he won the state's Regional Team Roping Finals and placed in the top five in the National Rodeo Finals in Oklahoma City at one point.

Originated the role of Travis Younger in Lorraine Hansberry's play "A Raisin in the Sun" (1959).

Attending youth camps as a child by his mother saved him from juvenile delinquency. An accomplished horseman, Turman and his wife, Jo-Ann, are co-founders of Camp Gid D Up, a Los Angeles-based non-profit organization for under-privileged children.

Induced into The National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum Hall of Fame. (2011)

The cast of "Joe Turner's Come and Gone" at the Mark Taper Forum Theatre in Los Angeles, California were awarded the 2013 Los Angeles Stage Alliance Ovation Award for Acting Ensemble of a Play.

He was awarded the 2013 Los Angeles Stage Alliance Ovation Award for Lead Actor in a Play for "Joe Turner's Come and Gone" at the Mark Taper Forum Theatre in Los Angeles, California.

He was awarded a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 7065 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California on July 10, 2025. Director Ava DuVernay and actor Don Cheadle were guest speakers at the ceremony.

Has four children: Glynn Turman, Jr, Stephanie Turman, Darryl Turman, and Delana Joy Turman.

Has granddaughter is Melinda.