October 25th 2023.
The entertainment industry has suffered a great loss with the recent passing of actor Richard Roundtree at the age of 81. Roundtree, known for his iconic role as detective John Shaft in the Shaft film franchise, passed away at home in Los Angeles surrounded by his family.
His manager, Patrick McMinn, released a statement honouring Richard and his immense contribution to the film industry. "The impact he had on the industry cannot be overstated," McMinn said.
Fellow actors and colleagues have been paying tribute to the actor, who was the first Black action hero. Samuel L Jackson wrote on Instagram that Roundtree was "the prototype, the best to ever do it" and that his passing has left a deep hole in everyone's hearts.
Roundtree was born in New York in 1942, and began his acting career at the age of 21. He was nominated for a Golden Globe for new star of the year in 1972, and went on to star in four sequels to Shaft, the latest coming in 2019. He also starred in the TV show Roots, Heroes and US soap opera Generations, and was featured in the 1984 film City Heat with Clint Eastwood.
In 1993, Roundtree was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent chemotherapy and a double mastectomy. He was married twice, first to Mary Hane Grant in 1962 and then to Karen Ciernia in 1980. He is survived by five children, two with his first wife and three with his second.
The entertainment industry has lost a great talent, but his legacy will live on. If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with cancer, Macmillan provides support and information. You can contact their helpline, use their webchat service, or visit their website for more information.
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