Louis Gossett Jr the first Black man to win a supporting actor Oscar
Louis Gossett Jr., the trailblazing actor who made history as the first Black man to win both an Oscar and an Emmy, has passed away at the age of 87. His nephew confirmed to The Associated Press that Gossett died Thursday night in Santa Monica, California, though no cause of death was disclosed.
Gossett’s remarkable career spanned decades, characterized by numerous groundbreaking performances and significant contributions to film and television. He often reflected on his journey, likening it to a reverse Cinderella story, where success found him from a young age and propelled him forward.
Born on May 27, 1936, in the Coney Island section of Brooklyn, New York, Louis Cameron Gossett Jr. began his acting journey in his high school’s production of “You Can’t Take It with You.” Despite initially pursuing basketball, an injury redirected him toward the stage, leading to his Broadway debut at just 16 years old.
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Throughout his career, Gossett’s talent and versatility were evident in his performances on both stage and screen. He received critical acclaim for his role in the Broadway production of “A Raisin in the Sun” in 1959 and later became a star on Broadway, alongside luminaries like Sammy Davis Jr.
In Hollywood, Gossett made significant contributions, notably as Fiddler in the groundbreaking miniseries “Roots,” which depicted the horrors of slavery on television. His portrayal earned him an Emmy award and solidified his place in entertainment history.
However, it was his role as the intimidating Marine drill instructor in “An Officer and a Gentleman” that earned Gossett widespread recognition and accolades, including an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. This achievement marked a significant milestone for Black actors in the industry and affirmed Gossett’s position as a respected talent.
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Despite his success, Gossett faced personal struggles, including battles with addiction and health issues. He announced his battle with prostate cancer in 2010, and in 2020, he was hospitalized with COVID-19.
Throughout his life, Gossett remained dedicated to his craft and to making a positive impact. He founded the Eracism Foundation, advocating for a world free of racism, and continued to inspire through his work and philanthropy.
Louis Gossett Jr. leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment and beyond. He is survived by his sons Satie and Sharron, as well as his first cousin, actor Robert Gossett. His contributions to the industry and his commitment to social change will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
