The world has bid farewell to cinematic legend Richard Roundtree. The iconic actor, renowned for his groundbreaking portrayal of detective John Shaft in the Shaft movie franchise, passed away at the age of 81 after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. Surrounded by his family, Roundtree left behind a career that spanned five decades and left an indelible mark on the world of film and television.
Roundtree began his journey in the entertainment industry with an early appearance on the soap opera "As the World Turns" in 1956. Over the years, he ventured into various genres and formats, showcasing his talent. One of his most significant roles was in the 1971 action thriller, "Shaft," and its sequels, "Shaft's Big Score!" (1972) and "Shaft in Africa" (1973). The character of detective John Shaft became a cultural icon, and Roundtree's performance earned him a New Star of the Year Golden Globe nomination, solidifying his status as the first Black action hero.
The impact of "Shaft" extended beyond the screen, as it symbolized Black power and resilience. The film's theme song, "Theme from Shaft" by Isaac Hayes, won an Academy Award for Best Song - Original for the Picture. Decades later, Roundtree reprised his iconic role in the 2000 movie "Shaft," starring alongside Samuel L. Jackson, and the 2019 sequel, directed by Tim Story.
Samuel L. Jackson, who portrayed the nephew of detective John Shaft in the 2000 sequel, paid tribute to Roundtree on Instagram, saying, "Richard Roundtree, The Prototype, The Best To Ever Do It!! SHAFT, as we know it is & will always be His Creation!! His passing leaves a deep hole not only in my heart, but I'm sure a lotta y'all's, too."
Richard Roundtree's "Shaft" influenced a generation of filmmakers, notably Quentin Tarantino. The director's body of work reflects his love for blaxploitation, and in his film "Django Unchained," he paid homage to Roundtree's character with a character named Brunhilde von Shaft, portrayed by Kerry Washington. This connection showcased the lasting impact of Roundtree's iconic portrayal.
In 2000, "Shaft" was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, recognizing its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. The New York Times also named it one of the best films ever made, further underscoring its enduring legacy.
Richard Roundtree's filmography extended beyond "Shaft." He appeared in diverse roles, including the 1981 film "Inchon" alongside Laurence Olivier and Ben Gazzara, as well as "City Heat" in 1984, opposite Clint Eastwood and Burt Reynolds. His extensive credits encompassed a wide range of genres, from "Se7en" to "George of the Jungle," demonstrating his versatility as an actor.
In addition to his film work, Roundtree made a significant impact on television, most notably in the acclaimed 1977 miniseries "Roots," where he portrayed slave Sam Bennett. His contributions to series like "Generations," "413 Hope St.," "Alias," "Diary of a Single Mom," "Buddies," "Desperate Housewives," "Soul Food," "Being Mary Jane," and "Family Reunion" showcased his wide-ranging talent and enduring appeal on the small screen.
