Richard Roundtree dead aged 81 as tributes pour in for Shaft icon
dailyrecord.co.ukHollywood film star Richard Roundtree died at his home in Los Angeles on Tuesday at the age of 81 as tributes have been pouring in for the US actor and “pioneer” for his role in the Shaft film franchise.The trailblazing actor, best known for starring as the ultra-smooth private detective John Shaft, “influenced so many” as people have issued heartfelt messages for the late acting star.
After the 1971 film’s success, Roundtree returned in sequels Shaft’s Big Score and Shaft In Africa, before a big-budget Shaft revival film starring Samuel L Jackson as Roundtree’s nephew was released in 2000.Jackson described Roundtree as “the best to ever do it” and also said that Shaft will “always be his creation”.
He added on Instagram: “His passing leaves a deep hole not only in my heart but I’m sure a lotta y’all’s to."The 74-year-old later added on Twitter: “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!!“Thanks for making us feel REAL GOOD about ourselves!
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