Richard Roundtree dead: Shaft star dies at 81

Richard Roundtree, a trailblazing actor known for his work in Shaft and Roots, has died at the age of 81.

Roundtree died Tuesday from pancreatic cancer at his home in Los Angeles, surrounded by family. The actor’s agency said it was mourning the loss of its friend and client.

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“His trailblazing career changed the face of entertainment around the globe and his enduring legacy will be felt for generations to come,” it told People. “Our hearts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Star actors took to social media to pay homage to the acting legend, noting his positive energy and impact as a black artist.

“Working with Richard Roundtree was a dream. Getting to hang with him & our Being Mary Jane family was always a good ass time with the best stories & laughs,” Gabrielle Union posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. “He was ALWAYS the coolest man in the room with the BEST vibes & ppl would literally run over to come see him. He was simply the best & we all loved him.”

“The passing of Richard Roundtree is a real blow. Loved being around him, learning, working, laughing & feeling Blessed to have an idol live up to who I expected him to be!!” Samuel L. Jackson wrote. “Thanks for making us feel REAL GOOD about ourselves! Rest In Power.”

Shaft, released in 1971, was successful as it spawned four sequels, the most recent being in 2019. The original was seen as being a powerful film because of its representation of black people and exploration of themes such as race and masculinity. Roots is also revered as an influential piece of art.

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“Richard’s work and career served as a turning point for African American leading men in film, Patrick McMinn, his manager since 1987, said in a statement, per Variety. “The impact he had on the industry cannot be overstated.”

Roundtree is survived by his four daughters, Nicole, Tayler, Morgan, and Kelli Roundtree, and his son, James, the news outlet added.