Richard Roundtree, ‘Shaft’ Star, Dead at 81

Richard Roundtree, , ‘Shaft’ Star, Dead at 81.
Roundtree died on Oct. 24 surrounded by his family, according to his manager, Patrick McMinn.
He had pancreatic cancer, NBC News reports.
Artists & Representatives Agency
mourns the loss of our friend
and client, Richard Roundtree, Patrick McMinn, Richard Roundtree's manager, via statement.
His trailblazing career changed the
face of entertainment around the
globe and his enduring legacy will
be felt for generations to come, Patrick McMinn, Richard Roundtree's manager, via statement.
Roundtree was also diagnosed with
breast cancer in 1993, becoming an advocate for increased awareness among men. .
The actor is best known for portraying
John Shaft in the 'Shaft' franchise.
According to the University of Maryland,
Baltimore County, the movie "introduced into mainstream
cinema the African American action hero; until then,
action-hero roles had been reserved for white actors.".
The film's success launched Roundtree into the spotlight and paved the way for other "strong Black protagonists in Hollywood," NBC News reports. .
He went on to appear in several
other films throughout the '80s and
'90s, including 'Original Gangstas.'.
TV credits include 'CHiPs,' 'Magnum P.I.,' 'Grey's Anatomy,' 'Chicago Fire' and more.
Roundtree has also appeared in
Samuel L. Jackson's newer versions of 'Shaft.'