Richard Roundtree, Star of Shaft Films, Dies at 81
LOS ANGELES – Richard Roundtree, the American actor best known for his iconic roles in the Shaft film franchise, has passed away at the age of 81. The actor, who had been battling pancreatic cancer, died surrounded by his family at his Los Angeles home on Tuesday afternoon.
Roundtree’s manager, Patrick McMinn, spoke to The Hollywood Reporter about the actor’s impact on the film industry. “Richard’s work and career served as a turning point for African American leading men in film,” McMinn said. “The impact he had on the industry cannot be overstated.”
In addition to his groundbreaking role in Shaft, Roundtree also made headlines in 1993 when he was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a double mastectomy. Speaking out about his experience, Roundtree aimed to raise awareness and debunk the misconception that breast cancer only affects women. “Breast cancer is not gender specific,” he said. “And men have this cavalier attitude about health issues. I got such positive feedback because I spoke out about it, and it’s been quite a number of years now. I’m a survivor.”
Roundtree, who was born on July 9, 1942, in New Rochelle, New York, is survived by his four daughters and a son. His parents were listed as a butler and a cook in the 1940 census, according to The New York Times.
Following his breakthrough role in Shaft in 1971, Roundtree went on to portray a diverse range of characters in various films. He appeared in the disaster film Earthquake (1974), alongside Charlton Heston and Ava Gardner, and assumed the title role in Man Friday (1975). Roundtree also starred in Inchon (1981), City Heat (1984) with Clint Eastwood and Burt Reynolds, and Q (1982), where he faced off against a colossal flying lizard.
The Hollywood Reporter quoted Roundtree as once sharing a conversation he had with his father. “My father was out visiting me in LA, and I was complaining about [how] 24/7, the Shaft character comes up,” Roundtree said. “His father told him: ‘Son, let me tell you something. A lot of people leave this Earth not being known for anything. Shut up.'”
The news of Roundtree’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, friends, and fellow actors. The Artists & Representatives Agency released a statement mourning the loss of their client and friend. “His trailblazing career changed the face of entertainment around the globe, and his enduring legacy will be felt for generations to come,” the statement read.
Samuel L Jackson, who took over the Shaft film franchise in 2000, paid tribute to Roundtree on social media. “Richard Roundtree, The Prototype, The Best To Ever Do It!! SHAFT, as we know it is & will always be His Creation!!” Jackson wrote. “His passing leaves a deep hole not only in my heart, but I’m sure a lotta y’all’s, too. Love you Brother, I see you walking down the Middle of Main Street in Heaven & Issac’s Conducting your song,” referring to the late Isaac Hayes’ famous Theme from Shaft, which won an Oscar.
Richard Roundtree’s contributions to cinema have left an indelible mark on the industry and will continue to be cherished by fans and filmmakers alike.