Louis Gossett Jr., known for being the first Black man to win a supporting actor Oscar and an Emmy winner for his role in the TV miniseries “Roots,” passed away at the age of 87 in Santa Monica, California. His nephew confirmed the news without revealing the cause of death. Gossett always saw his career as a reverse Cinderella story, with success finding him at an early age and leading him to his Academy Award for “An Officer and a Gentleman.”
Gossett’s acting career began in high school when he participated in a production of “You Can’t Take It with You,” which sparked his passion for acting. He made his Broadway debut in 1953 at the age of 16 in “Take a Giant Step.” He went on to attend New York University on a basketball and drama scholarship, where he appeared on various TV shows and established himself as a rising star. Gossett’s career flourished on Broadway, where he worked alongside icons like Sidney Poitier, Ruby Dee, and Diana Sands in productions like “A Raisin in the Sun.”
Transitioning to Hollywood in the early 1960s, Gossett faced racial discrimination and encounters with law enforcement that shaped his perspective on racial justice. These experiences fueled his passion for activism, leading him to establish the Eracism Foundation to combat racism. Despite facing personal challenges with addiction and health issues, including a battle with prostate cancer and a recent bout with COVID-19, Gossett remained dedicated to his craft and continued to work on meaningful projects up until his passing.
Gossett’s groundbreaking role as Fiddler in the miniseries “Roots” highlighted the atrocities of slavery and set the stage for his historic Oscar win as a supporting actor in “An Officer and a Gentleman.” This win opened doors for Gossett to choose diverse and challenging roles in his later career. His contributions to film and television, including appearances in TV movies like “Backstairs at the White House” and “The Josephine Baker Story,” solidified his legacy as a versatile and talented actor.
Throughout his career, Gossett faced personal and professional challenges but always persevered with resilience and determination. His impact on the entertainment industry, as well as his commitment to social justice and activism, leaves a lasting legacy. Gossett’s dedication to his craft, his advocacy for racial equality, and his ability to transcend barriers in Hollywood will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike. He is survived by his sons and leaves behind a rich body of work that showcases his talent and his passion for storytelling.
