Richard Roundtree, trailblazing actor best known for 'Shaft', passes away at 81
economictimes.indiatimes.com
Richard Roundtree, renowned for his groundbreaking portrayal of Detective John Shaft in the 1970s action thriller «Shaft,» has died at the age of 81. His longtime manager, Patrick McMinn, confirmed that the actor had been battling pancreatic cancer and passed away at his residence in Los Angeles on Tuesday.
Roundtree had previously faced breast cancer, undergoing a double mastectomy in 1993.
Remembering the legendary actor, McMinn highlighted Roundtree's transformative impact on the representation of African American leading men in the entertainment industry. «Richard's work and career served as a turning point for African American leading men,» McMinn stated.
«The impact he had on the industry cannot be overstated.»
Gabrielle Union, Roundtree's co-star from «Being Mary Jane,» shared her heartfelt condolences in a tribute post, recalling her experience of working with Roundtree as «a dream.» Union described him as «ALWAYS the coolest man in the room with the best vibes,» and reminisced about the fond memories shared with him.
While Roundtree initially kept his battle with cancer private, he later became an advocate for raising awareness about the disease. Reflecting on his journey, Roundtree spoke about the challenges of not discussing his illness openly, highlighting the positive impact that sharing his story had on others.
Born in New Rochelle, New York, in 1942, Roundtree's breakthrough role came in 1971 with the release of «Shaft,» directed by Gordon Parks, which propelled him to stardom.
