Oscar-winner Louis Gossett Jr died aged 87

Louis Gossett Jr, the first black man to win a supporting actor Oscar for An Officer and a Gentleman, has passed away at the age of 87.

Louis Gossett Jr was the first black man to win a supporting actor Oscar for his role in An Officer and a Gentleman.

The New York-born actor, who clinched the Academy Award in 1982 for his portrayal of Gunnery Sergeant Emil Foley in An Officer and a Gentleman, has passed away, as confirmed by his family to CBS, the BBC’s US partner. The cause of death remains undisclosed.

Gossett’s accolades include an Emmy in 1978 for his performance in Roots, the groundbreaking TV mini-series depicting slavery. Beginning his career with a Broadway debut in his teens, he showcased his talent in productions like A Raisin in the Sun and Golden Boy.

Over six decades, Gossett garnered widespread acclaim for his work, continuing to captivate audiences even in his later years. His final acting role was in the 2023 musical adaptation of The Color Purple.

In the movie, a reimagining of Alice Walker’s 1982 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, he portrayed Ol’ Mister Johnson, the father of Albert “Mister” Johnson, played by Colman Domingo.

Domingo expressed his admiration for him on Instagram, referring to him as “a true great” and “a true legend”. Domingo reflected on the honor of sharing scenes with him in his final film, “The Color Purple,” where Gossett portrayed his father. He quoted Fantasia Barrino’s poignant tribute, acknowledging Gossett’s significant contributions to the industry and the profound impact of his performances.

Barrino, who played Celie in the film, also paid tribute, describing Gossett as “an awesome man” and expressing gratitude for the stories he shared. She emphasized his role in paving the way for black actors and actresses.

Gossett’s impressive career included notable roles in projects like “Backstairs At The White House,” “The Story Of Satchel Paige,” and “The Josephine Baker Story,” which earned him a Golden Globe. He also appeared in the cult classic science fiction film “Enemy Mine,” portraying the alien Jeriba Shigan alongside Dennis Quaid.

His enormous talent and memorable performances have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. From his Oscar-winning role in ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’ to his powerful performances in ‘Roots’ and ‘Iron Eagle,’ Gossett’s career spanned decades and inspired countless aspiring actors. Whether he was playing a tough drill instructor or a compassionate mentor, Gossett Jr’s presence on screen was always captivating. His impact on the film industry will be felt for generations to come. We’ll miss you, Louis Gossett Jr, but your legacy will live on through the timeless characters you brought to life.

Read More: Gogglebox star, 40, died after fall from height

Disclaimer:
This content is AI-generated using IFTTT AI Content Creator. While we strive for accuracy, it’s a tool for rapid updates. We’re committed to filtering information, not reproducing or endorsing misinformation. – Jomotoday for more information visit privacy policy