Richard Roundtree, the iconic actor best known for his groundbreaking role as John Shaft in the 1971 film "Shaft," passed away at the age of 81. His death was confirmed by his manager, Patrick McMinn, who revealed that Roundtree succumbed to pancreatic cancer with his family by his side.
Born in New Rochelle, New York, Roundtree's journey to stardom began with football at Southern Illinois University, followed by a stint in modeling. However, his passion for theater led him to join New York's esteemed Negro Ensemble Company. Before long, the role of John Shaft, a "hotter than Bond, cooler than Bullitt" private detective, catapulted him to international fame. The film, directed by the legendary Gordon Parks, not only won Oscars for its music but also introduced mainstream cinema to the African American action hero, a role traditionally reserved for white actors.
While Roundtree's portrayal of Shaft remains his most recognized work, his acting repertoire was vast. He graced television screens with appearances in shows like "CHiPs," "Magnum P.I.," "Desperate Housewives," "Grey's Anatomy," and "Chicago Fire." He also featured in numerous action films from the 1980s and 1990s, including "Original Gangstas." Later versions of "Shaft" saw him portraying older versions of himself alongside Samuel L. Jackson.
Beyond his cinematic contributions, Roundtree was a beacon of hope and inspiration in the realm of health advocacy. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 1993, he became a vocal advocate for breast cancer awareness among men. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE in 2000, Roundtree opened up about his diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the importance of men speaking up about their health. "I'm not embarrassed," he asserted, highlighting the rarity yet reality of breast cancer in men.
His diagnosis led to a modified mastectomy, followed by six months of grueling chemotherapy. Despite the challenges, Roundtree's resilience shone through. He continued to work, even keeping his diagnosis a secret for fear of jeopardizing his career. However, after receiving an all-clear, he felt a responsibility to raise awareness about male breast cancer.
The American Cancer Society notes that approximately 2,800 American men are diagnosed with invasive breast cancer annually, with around 530 succumbing to the disease. Roundtree's openness about his experience played a pivotal role in shedding light on this often-overlooked issue.
Tributes have poured in from fans and colleagues alike, celebrating Roundtree's indelible mark on the entertainment industry and his enduring legacy. Cheo Coker, the creator of the Netflix series "Luke Cage," hailed him as a hero and a significant inspiration for the show.
In a heartfelt statement, McMinn said, "His trailblazing career changed the face of entertainment around the globe, and his enduring legacy will be felt for generations to come."
