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Richard Roundtree: A Tribute
The trailblazing actor redefined the role of the action hero
Accomplished actor Richard Roundtree passed away on October 24, 2023 after losing his battle with pancreatic cancer.
He was 81.
Roundtree originated the role of detective John Shaft in the groundbreaking film Shaft (1971). The character is considered by many — including yours truly — to be the first onscreen Black action hero of cinema.
The character of Shaft was centered in a series of hit titular motion pictures that were part of the “Blaxploitation” genre of films geared specifically towards African American audiences in the 1970s.
However, because of the handsome actor’s undeniable charisma, gravitas, and sophisticated street style — Nobody could wear a leather coat like Roundtree — the films proved to the world at large that African Americans in leading film roles could draw audiences and be profitable.
But to this Gen-Xer, growing up watching the iconic actor blaze trails in Hollywood left an indelible impression.
Roundtree’s electric portrayal of Shaft shattered racist stereotypes regarding roles then considered suitable for African American actors onscreen; many of those stereotypes remain all too common 52 years after the first Shaft…
