The film star Richard Roundtree has passed away.
The actor, who gained widespread fame for his role as private detective John Shaft in the action film "Shaft," was suffering from pancreatic cancer and passed away on Tuesday, surrounded by his family.
The news was reported by The New York Times. Richard Roundtree was 81 years old.
He earned the title of "the first Black action hero" after his appearance in "Shaft" back in 1971. He was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance in the film and also starred in its sequels, "Shaft's Big Score!" and "Shaft in Africa."
Richard Roundtree was also part of the cast when the iconic film was remade in 2000, featuring Samuel L. Jackson in the lead role. He also appeared in the sequel released in 2019.
"We mourn the loss of our friend. His groundbreaking career changed the entertainment world, and his legacy will be felt for generations," his management said in a statement.
Watch Richard Roundtree in 'Shaft' below
