Louis Gossett Jr. -famed for being the first Black man to take home a Best Support Actor award at the Oscars – has passed away aged 87.
As reported by Sky News, the 87-year-old passed away on Thursday night in Santa Monica, California.
No cause of death has yet been revealed.
Gossett’s breakthrough came with his role as Fiddler in the groundbreaking television miniseries Roots (1977).
Louis Gossett Jr. has passed away at the age of 87. Credit: Amy Sussman / GettyHis portrayal of the wise and compassionate slave earned him widespread acclaim and the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie.
He won the Academy Award for his role in An Officer And A Gentleman where he portrayed Gunnery Sergeant Emil Foley opposite Richard Gere.
Throughout his career, Gossett has exhibited versatility in his roles, effortlessly transitioning between drama, comedy, and action genres. He has appeared in a wide range of films, including Iron Eagle (1986), Enemy Mine (1985), and The Deep (1977).
Gossett was the first Black man to win Best Supporting Actor at the Oscars in 1983. Credit: Michael Ochs Archives/GettyIn addition to his film work, Gossett has made significant contributions to television and theater. He has starred in numerous television series and made-for-TV movies, earning additional Emmy Awards for his performances in The Josephine Baker Story (1991) and The Powers That Be (1992).
Walter Matthau and Louis Gossett Jr. in a scene from the movie An Investigation of Murder (1973). Credit: Stanley Bielecki Movie Collection / GettyBeyond his achievements in entertainment, Gossett is also known for his activism and philanthropy. He has been involved in various charitable endeavors, particularly those focused on education and youth development.
Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this time.