Before turning to acting, Browne taught literature and French at Lincoln University.
Began his acting career on the New York stage.
Ever the wry quipster, he was once told by a director that his speech sounded "white", to which he responded, "We had a white maid".
Has appeared with Steven Hill in two different, completely unrelated productions in which Hill played the New York County District Attorney: Legal Eagles (1986) and the "Law & Order" (1990) episode "Consultation".
Member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (Actors Branch).
Was nominated for Broadway's 1992 Tony Award as Best Actor (Featured Role - Play) for August Wilson's "Two Trains Running."