LOS ANGELES — Richard Roundtree, the trailblazing actor who starred as the ultra-smooth private detective in several “Shaft” films beginning in the early 1970s, has died. “The impact he had on the industry cannot be overstated.” Roundtree, who was born in New Rochelle, New York, was considered as the first Black action hero and became one of the leading actors …
Actor Richard Roundtree, best known for playing John Shaft in the 1971 film Shaft, has died aged 81. Key points: Richard Roundtree's manager said he died at his home in Los Angeles on Tuesday After the success of Shaft, Roundtree returned in sequels Shaft’s Big Score in 1972 and Shaft in Africa in 1973 He was married twice and is …
Richard Roundtree said of his role in “Shaft”: “It put me on the map.” Richard Roundtree lent his velvet voice and cool cat stride to one of the most influential action heroes of the 1970s. “Our hearts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.” Often heralded as the first Black action hero, Roundtree shot to superstardom …
Seven years ago—when #OscarsSoWhite was a hot topic and Obama was still president—Slate published the Black Film Canon, a list of 50 of the best and most culturally significant films by Black directors. “Dash insisted on making a migration film that would rely on the vibrancy of images, the richness of Gullah cultural rituals and its African rooted ancestral signification, …
