Source: Michael Ochs Archives / Getty
The world has lost a true African-American icon. Richard Roundtree, star of the seminal Blaxploitation film Shaft, has passed away. He was 81.
Rest in Peace Richard Roundtree. The one and only Shaft.
— Keith Boykin (@keithboykin) October 25, 2023
Reportedly, Roundtree died on Tuesday afternoon (Oct. 24) from pancreatic cancer. The renowned actor’s longtime manager, Patrick McMinn, confirmed his death.
“Richard’s work and career served as a turning point for African American leading men in film,” said McMinn in a statement. “The impact he had on the industry cannot be overstated.”
To say that Roundtree was influential would be a massive understatement. In 1971 he starred as John Shaft, the titular lead character of Gordon Park’s landmark film which is credited with launching the Blaxploitation genre. Sporting an afro and undeniable swagger, Shaft became the prototype of urban, effortless cool that was otherwise previously unseen on the movie screen.
Richard Roundtree is survived by four daughters, Nicole, Tayler, Morgan and Kelli Roundtree, and a son, James. Fans, Hollywood stars, musicians, pro athletes and more quickly took to Twitter to salute the legend, which we have assembple below.
Rest in powerful peace Richard Roundtree, he was bad mother [shut your mouth].
1.
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. 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… pic.twitter.com/1N8fHVDsA6
— Gabrielle Union (@itsgabrielleu) October 25, 2023
2.
RIP to the legendary Richard Roundtree, prayers to his family
He was a bad mother… https://t.co/XmZ81r0Jto
— Strictly 4 My X’ers (@Lizzs_Lockeroom) October 25, 2023
3.
When I was a teenager I use to dream about growing up to meet Richard Roundtree. I did and what a wonderful human being. pic.twitter.com/1ZiIdj4d0o
— sheryl lee ralph (@thesherylralph) October 25, 2023
6.
I adored my relationship with Richard Roundtree. The conversations were always fascinating and illuminating. He had that big smile and he was always so gracious, elegant and smooth. I am so glad that God ordained for our paths to cross. RIP, noble Black man! 1/2 pic.twitter.com/Susqzok3Mv
— rolandsmartin (@rolandsmartin) October 25, 2023
7.
The Hayes family would like to share our sadness with the loss of Richard Roundtree, a true icon.
His legendary role as SHAFT, transcended the screen, defining an era.
Rest in power, Richard. #RichardRoundtree #Legend” pic.twitter.com/gmgTTAeVFZ
— Isaac Hayes (@isaachayes) October 25, 2023
8.
Richard Roundtree in Chicago’s Bud Billiken Day parade, 8/12/1972. @Suntimes photo from the @ChicagoMuseum collection. pic.twitter.com/dUJQ1sIPeT
— Lee Bey (@LEEBEY) October 25, 2023
9.
I just heard, the icon that is Richard Roundtree is gone. The original SHAFT!!! His performance influenced so many and so much. And he was a great guy! #NeverForgotten #BePeace
— Carl Weathers (@TheCarlWeathers) October 25, 2023
10.
Who’s the black private dick that’s a sex machine to all the chicks?
(Shaft)
You’re damn right.
All hail Richard Roundtree. pic.twitter.com/YjmyXJKL6k
— Dana Delany (@DanaDelany) October 25, 2023
11.
Rest In Peace Richard Roundtree#Shaft pic.twitter.com/FttrfGaRcf
— Etan Thomas (@etanthomas36) October 25, 2023
