Louis Gossett Jr., the pioneering actor who made history as the first black man to win an Oscar for Best Supporting Role, has sadly passed away. He was 87 years old.
Gossett’s first cousin, Neal L. Gossett, reported The Associated Press that the actor died Thursday night in Santa Monica, California. The cause of death has not been revealed.
Gossett made a significant impact on television when he played Fiddler in the influential 1977 miniseries. Estate, showing the brutal realities of slavery on the small screen. The extensive cast featured notable actors such as Ben Vereen, LeVar Burton, and John Amos.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm that our beloved father passed away this morning,” Gossett’s family said in a statement. “We would like to thank everyone for their condolences at this time. Please respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.”
Gosset took the stage for the first time during his teenage years after a basketball injury sidelined him. He enrolled in an acting class, where he discovered his true passion. At age 15 he landed his first Broadway role in Take a giant step. Gossett then focused on his craft, aiming for Hollywood, attending acting classes with Marilyn Monroe and Martin Landau.
In 1961, Gossett entered the film industry with his debut in A raisin in the sun. Although she later appeared in low-budget films, she struggled to get the substantial roles she desired. However, in 1977 she gained recognition for her portrayal of Fidler in the groundbreaking television miniseries. Estatewinning an Emmy for his performance.
Louis Gossett Jr. wins Oscar and transitions into tough guy roles
In 1983, Gossett made history. He was the third black actor nominated for an Oscar in the supporting actor category. His award-winning performance was as the formidable Navy drill instructor in An officer and a gentleman.
He starred alongside Richard Gere and Debra Winger. The performance not only earned him an Oscar but also a Golden Globe.
From there, Louis Gossett Jr. took advantage of his Officer and gentleman person. He played tough characters and authority figures in action films like The Punisher (1989) with Dolph Lundgren, and the iron eagle 1986 series and its three sequels. In it iron eagle In the franchise, he played Colonel Charles “Chappy” Sinclair, leading daring rescue missions in dangerous international locations.
Most recently, he played Halle Berry’s estranged father on the CBS show. Existing. Gossett also played a retired superhero. Will Reeves on HBO watchmen in 2019. His turn in watchmen It earned him his eighth Emmy nomination.
Categories: Biography
Source: vcmp.edu.vn