Quick Facts
Born:
1942-07-09
Birthplace:
New Rochelle, New York, USA
Credits:
152 Total Roles
Richard Roundtree
Acting
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Biography
Richard Arnold Roundtree (July 9, 1942 – October 24, 2023) was an American actor. He is noted as being "the first black action hero" for his portrayal of private detective John Shaft in the 1971 film Shaft, and its four sequels, released between 1972 and 2019. For his performance in the original film, he was nominated for the Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year – Actor in 1972.
Roundtree died of pancreatic cancer at his home in Los Angeles. He was cremated at Chapel of the Pines Crematory. His family hosted a memorial service for him at Saint Catherine African Methodist Episcopal Church in New Rochelle, New York on February 17, 2024.
Roundtree died of pancreatic cancer at his home in Los Angeles. He was cremated at Chapel of the Pines Crematory. His family hosted a memorial service for him at Saint Catherine African Methodist Episcopal Church in New Rochelle, New York on February 17, 2024.
Known For
Se7en
Talbot
Grey's Anatomy
Donald Burke
The Mentalist
Floyd Benton
Heroes
Charles Deveaux
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
Dr. Mumford
Chicago Fire
Wallace Boden, Sr.
George of the Jungle
Kwame
Desperate Housewives
Mr. Shaw
Full Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Thelma MOVIE | Ben |
| 2023 | Moving On MOVIE | Ralph |
| 2021 | A Choice of Weapons: Inspired by Gordon Parks MOVIE | Self |
| 2020 | Haunting of the Mary Celeste MOVIE | Tulls |
| 2020 | GAME ON: A Comedy Crossover Event TV | Grandpa |
| 2019 | A Family Reunion Christmas MOVIE | Jebidiah McKellan |
| 2019 | Family Reunion TV | Grandpa |
| 2019 | Harlem to Hollywood MOVIE | Self |
| 2019 | Shaft MOVIE | John Shaft, Sr. |
| 2019 | What Men Want MOVIE | Skip Davis |