African-American Actors Who Filmed Their Final Role Just Before Dying

The entertainment industry often sees talented performers work right until their final moments. Many African-American actors have left behind powerful performances that were released posthumously or filmed just before their passing. These final roles often serve as a poignant tribute to their lengthy careers and artistic contributions. This list explores several notable men who completed their final filming duties shortly before their deaths.

Chadwick Boseman

The actor completed his work on the film ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’ shortly before his passing in August 2020. He played the ambitious trumpet player Levee Green opposite Viola Davis in the Netflix production. His performance earned a posthumous Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Boseman had been privately battling colon cancer for four years while filming several major projects. This final role highlighted his talent and dedication during a difficult health struggle.

Michael Kenneth Williams

He finished filming his scenes for the Western film ‘Surrounded’ prior to his death in September 2021. The movie features him as a character named Will Barnett in a story set in the late nineteenth century. Williams was known for his intense and authentic portrayals of complex characters throughout his career. This project was released posthumously and added another layer to his legacy of dramatic excellence. The film remains one of the last opportunities for audiences to see his screen presence.

Bernie Mac

This comedian and actor completed work on the musical comedy ‘Soul Men’ shortly before his death in 2008. He starred alongside Samuel L. Jackson as a former soul singer attempting a comeback. The production was released after his passing and became a tribute to his comedic timing. Mac also finished a voice role for the animated film ‘Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa’ during the same period. His final live action appearance showcased his ability to blend humor with musical talent.

Lance Reddick

He finished filming his role in ‘John Wick: Chapter 4’ just weeks before he passed away in March 2023. Reddick reprised his character Charon who served as the concierge of the Continental Hotel. He was also involved in the television series ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’ which featured his final television performance. His sudden departure occurred while he was actively promoting his latest cinematic work. The industry mourned the loss of a performer known for his commanding voice and steady presence.

James Earl Jones

The legendary performer made one of his final onscreen appearances in the sequel ‘Coming 2 America’ in 2021. He returned to the role of King Jaffe Joffer to provide a sense of continuity to the beloved story. Although he officially retired from voicing iconic characters later he remained active in the industry through these specific cameos. His appearance in the film served as a celebratory moment for fans of the original comedy. This role marked the end of an era for one of the most recognizable voices in Hollywood history.

Bill Cobbs

He appeared in an episode of the popular sitcom ‘Abbott Elementary’ just months before his death in June 2024. The veteran actor played a character that brought humor and wisdom to the school setting. Throughout his long career he was a staple in both television and major motion pictures. His presence in the modern comedy series showed his enduring appeal across different generations of viewers. This brief but memorable role stands as the final performance of a prolific career.

Louis Gossett Jr.

The Academy Award winner completed voice work for the film ‘IF’ and appeared in the musical version of ‘The Color Purple’ shortly before his passing. He provided a soulful performance in the 2023 adaptation that honored his long standing connection to dramatic storytelling. His role in the animated project was released posthumously in 2024. Gossett remained an active member of the acting community until the very end of his life. He is remembered for his groundbreaking roles that paved the way for future generations of actors.

Carl Weathers

He was a central figure in the television series ‘The Mandalorian’ where he played Greef Karga until his death in early 2024. Weathers also directed several episodes of the show during his multi season run. His character evolved from a bounty hunter guild leader to a respected high magistrate. This role introduced him to a new generation of fans within the science fiction community. He passed away peacefully while still being a vital part of the ongoing production.

Ron Cephas Jones

The actor filmed his role in the series ‘Genius: MLK/X’ before his death in August 2023. He played the character Elijah Muhammad in this historical drama that explored the lives of civil rights leaders. Jones was celebrated for his previous work in emotional dramas where he often played paternal figures. This final project allowed him to explore a significant historical figure with his trademark depth. His passing marked the end of a career filled with critically acclaimed television performances.

Andre Braugher

He was in the middle of filming the television series ‘The Residence’ when he passed away in December 2023. The show was a White House murder mystery that featured him in a leading role. Known for his powerful performances in police dramas he brought a sense of gravity to every character he played. His sudden death left the production and his colleagues in a state of shock. This unfinished work remains a testament to his constant demand as a leading man.

Richard Roundtree

The iconic star of ‘Shaft’ filmed a role in the comedy film ‘Thelma’ shortly before he died in 2023. He played a supportive friend to the title character in a story about an elderly woman seeking justice. His performance in this late career project showed his range and willingness to take on diverse genres. Roundtree remained an active presence in the film industry for over five decades. This final film role highlighted his enduring charisma and talent as a character actor.

John Witherspoon

He was a recurring cast member on the show ‘The Last O.G.’ when he passed away in October 2019. Witherspoon also voiced several characters and was known for his energetic comedic style. His work on the series continued his legacy of playing humorous parental figures. He died suddenly at his home which left fans of his various film franchises saddened. The show provided a final showcase for his unique delivery and infectious personality.

Reg E. Cathey

The actor completed his final scenes for the second season of ‘Luke Cage’ before his death in February 2018. He played the character James Lucas who was the father of the main protagonist. His performance was praised for its emotional resonance and complexity. Cathey was a well respected figure in the theater and television worlds for many years. His work in the Marvel universe served as a fitting end to a career of distinguished roles.

Charlie Murphy

He was a series regular on the drama ‘Power’ when he died in April 2017. Murphy played a prison guard named Marshal Williams in the intense television series. He was widely known for his comedic contributions but this role allowed him to show a more dramatic side. His illness was kept private while he continued to fulfill his professional obligations. This character was his last major contribution to the world of television drama.

Thomas Mikal Ford

The actor finished working on the film ‘Digital Lives Matter’ shortly before his passing in October 2016. He was best known for his role as Tommy on a popular 1990s sitcom. This final film project allowed him to work with other comedians in a modern social media satire. Ford remained a familiar face in the industry through various hosting and acting gigs. His death at a young age came as a surprise to his fans and colleagues.

James Avery

He completed his final role in the film ‘Wish I Was Here’ just before he died in late 2013. Avery was an accomplished voice actor and live action performer best known for playing a stern but loving uncle. His role in this independent film showed his versatility away from the sitcom format. The movie was released posthumously and was dedicated to his memory by the director. He is remembered for his authoritative presence and warm personality on screen.

Michael Clarke Duncan

The actor had several projects in production including the film ‘The Challenger’ when he died in 2012. He was known for his massive physical stature and his deep resonant voice. His final roles often utilized his ability to play both gentle giants and formidable opponents. He suffered a heart attack that eventually led to his passing while he was still very active in Hollywood. This final film showcased his enduring strength as a performer.

Sherman Hemsley

He provided voice work for the animated series ‘American Dad!’ shortly before his death in 2012. Hemsley was an icon of television comedy who was famous for his high energy performances. His guest appearance allowed him to poke fun at his own public persona. He lived a relatively private life after his most famous shows ended but continued to work occasionally. This final credit brought his career full circle by returning to the medium where he found fame.

Gary Coleman

His last screen appearance was in the independent comedy ‘Midgets vs. Mascots’ which was released shortly before his death in 2010. Coleman was a former child star who struggled to find consistent work in his adult years. This project was a satirical look at his own status as a pop culture figure. He participated in the filming despite his ongoing health issues. The film remains a controversial but final part of his complicated career history.

Isaac Hayes

The musician and actor filmed a role in the comedy ‘Soul Men’ alongside Bernie Mac before his death in 2008. He played himself in a cameo that celebrated his status as a soul music legend. Hayes was a significant figure in both the music industry and the film world for decades. He passed away just a day after the filming of his final scenes was completed. His presence in the film added a sense of authenticity to the story of aging musicians.

Robert Guillaume

The veteran actor completed work on the film ‘Columbus Day’ before he passed away in 2017. He was a pioneer in the industry who won multiple awards for his television work. In his final years he mostly focused on voice acting and occasional independent film roles. His performance in this crime drama was one of his last times appearing in person on screen. He left behind a legacy of breaking barriers for African-American performers.

Yaphet Kotto

He reprised his iconic role of Parker through voice acting for the game ‘Alien: Isolation’ shortly before his death in 2021. Kotto was known for his intense roles in action and science fiction films during the 1970s and 1980s. This project allowed him to reconnect with the franchise that made him a household name. He lived a quiet life in his final years away from the Hollywood spotlight. This vocal performance served as a final gift to his dedicated fanbase.

Gregory Hines

The famous tap dancer and actor appeared in the television film ‘The Last Dance’ shortly before his death in 2003. He was also a recurring guest on a popular sitcom during his final months of life. Hines was a multi talented performer who excelled in both musical theater and dramatic films. His final role highlighted his grace and the charisma that defined his entire career. He passed away from cancer which he had kept private from the public.

Scatman Crothers

He voiced the character Jazz in ‘The Transformers: The Movie’ shortly before his passing in 1986. Crothers was a versatile performer who worked in music and film for over fifty years. This animated role became one of his most beloved contributions to popular culture. He also appeared in several television shows during his final year of life. His distinctive voice remained a highlight of his performance even as his health declined.

Woody Strode

The actor completed his role in the Western ‘The Quick and the Dead’ just before he died in late 1994. He played a character named Charlie Moonlight in the stylized film directed by Sam Raimi. Strode was a former athlete who became a pioneer for Black actors in the Western genre. The film was dedicated to his memory upon its release in 1995. This final performance showcased his legendary physical presence and dignity.

Sammy Davis Jr.

He starred in the film ‘Tap’ alongside Gregory Hines shortly before his death in 1990. This movie was a tribute to the art of tap dancing which had been a major part of his life. He performed a memorable dance sequence that proved he still had his legendary skills. Davis was battling throat cancer during the later stages of his career. This role allowed him to bid a final professional farewell to his audience through the art he loved.

Brock Peters

He made his final appearances in the television series ‘The L Word’ before his death in 2005. Peters was best known for his powerful role in ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ several decades earlier. He remained a respected character actor who worked consistently in film and television. His final role allowed him to bring his gravitas to a modern drama series. He passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer at the age of seventy-eight.

Ossie Davis

The actor was working on the project ‘Deacons for Defense’ shortly before his death in early 2005. He was a legendary figure in the civil rights movement as well as the acting world. Davis often collaborated with his wife Ruby Dee on various artistic and social projects. His final role continued his tradition of playing men with strong moral convictions. He was found dead in his hotel room while on location for a film project.

Paul Winfield

He completed his narration work and a role in ‘The Legend of Butch & Sundance’ before his death in 2004. Winfield was an Academy Award nominated actor known for his intellectual and emotional depth. He worked across genres including science fiction and historical dramas. His final television appearances showed that he remained a talented and sought after performer. He died of a heart attack shortly after finishing his last professional assignments.

Meshach Taylor

The actor appeared in a final episode of ‘Criminal Minds’ before his passing in 2014. He was widely recognized for his role on a popular 1980s sitcom about a design firm. Taylor continued to work steadily in television guest spots throughout his later years. He fought a brave battle with cancer while maintaining his professional schedule. This final dramatic role allowed him to showcase his skills outside of the comedy genre.

Bill Nunn

He appeared in the television series ‘Sirens’ shortly before his death in 2016. Nunn was a favorite collaborator of several major directors and was known for his memorable character work. He is often remembered for his role as Radio Raheem in a seminal 1989 film. His final role in the comedy series showed his ability to adapt to modern television formats. He passed away at his home in Pittsburgh after a long career.

Thomas Jefferson Byrd

The actor completed his role in the film ‘Freedom’s Path’ shortly before he was killed in 2020. He was a frequent collaborator with director Spike Lee and appeared in many of his films. Byrd was known for his distinct voice and intense stage presence. This final project was a historical drama that utilized his talents for deep character work. His sudden death was a major loss to the independent film community.

Richard Pryor

His final film role was a brief but memorable appearance in the 1997 film ‘Lost Highway’ directed by David Lynch. Pryor was battling multiple sclerosis which limited his physical mobility during his final years. He played a mechanic in a role that was written specifically to accommodate his health condition. Although he lived for several more years this was his last significant acting contribution. His appearance was a poignant reminder of his status as a comedic legend.

Redd Foxx

He was filming the television series ‘The Royal Family’ when he suffered a fatal heart attack on set in 1991. Foxx was a pioneer of stand up comedy and a major television star in the 1970s. His sudden death occurred during a rehearsal for the new show. The production was eventually completed and aired as a tribute to his career. This final role showed that he still had the ability to lead a network sitcom.

Moses J. Moseley

The young actor appeared in ‘The Walking Dead’ and had several other projects in development when he died in 2022. He was known for playing one of the iconic pet zombies on the hit series. Moseley was starting to transition into more traditional acting roles before his untimely passing. His death at a young age shocked his fans and the horror community. This early role remains his most recognizable contribution to television history.

Ricky Harris

He appeared in ‘The Tracy Morgan Show’ and had a role in the film ‘Dope’ shortly before his death in 2016. Harris was a comedian and actor who was well known in the hip hop community. He provided voices for several popular video games and appeared in various television comedies. His final roles showcased his ability to bring humor to any project he joined. He died of a heart attack at the age of fifty-four.

Bubba Smith

His final screen role was in the film ‘The Search for Santa Paws’ which was released in 2010. Smith was a former professional football player who became a successful actor in comedy films. He was best known for his role as Moses Hightower in a long running comedy franchise. He passed away in 2011 from acute drug intoxication and heart issues. This final holiday film was a departure from his usual tough guy roles.

Steve James

The action star filmed his final role in ‘Bloodfist V: Human Target’ before his death in 1993. James was a talented martial artist and actor who appeared in many popular action movies of the 1980s. He was often cast as the charismatic sidekick to major action stars. He died of pancreatic cancer at the height of his career. This final film remains a favorite among fans of the low budget action genre.

Julius Carry

He had a final television appearance in the series ‘The Unit’ shortly before he passed away in 2008. Carry was best known for his role as Sho’nuff in the cult classic film ‘The Last Dragon’ from 1985. He was a prolific character actor who appeared in dozens of television shows over three decades. He died from pancreatic cancer at the age of fifty-six. His final work showed his continued dedication to his acting career.

Clarence Williams III

The actor filmed his role in ‘Tales from the Hood 3’ shortly before his death in 2021. He was a legendary figure known for his role in a groundbreaking 1960s police drama. Williams brought a sense of mystery and intensity to all of his cinematic performances. He remained a respected member of the acting community until his passing from colon cancer. This horror anthology film was his final contribution to a diverse body of work.

DMX

The rapper and actor completed his scenes for the film ‘Doggmen’ shortly before his death in 2021. He was a significant figure in the action movie genre during the early 2000s. Known for his raw energy and gravelly voice he brought a unique presence to the screen. His passing occurred before the film could be fully completed and released to the public. This final role serves as a reminder of his dual talent as a musician and actor.

Kevin Barnett

The comedian and actor was working on the sitcom ‘Rel’ when he died suddenly in early 2019. He was a rising star in the comedy world and worked as both a writer and a performer. His death occurred while he was on vacation during a break from his professional duties. He was known for his sharp wit and his contributions to several popular comedy series. This final television role showcased his potential as a leading comedic actor.

Windell Middlebrooks

He appeared in the film ‘Road Hard’ and was a series regular on several shows before his death in 2015. Middlebrooks was widely recognized for his appearances in a series of popular beer commercials. He was a talented character actor who brought a large personality to his various roles. He died suddenly at his home from a pulmonary embolism at a young age. His final film role was a collaboration with other well known comedic actors.

James Edwards

The actor appeared in the classic film ‘Patton’ which was released the same year he died in 1970. Edwards was a pioneer for Black actors in Hollywood and often played dignified professional characters. He was one of the first African-American actors to be cast in non stereotypical roles in major films. He died of a heart attack at the age of fifty-two. This final role in a major historical drama was a fitting conclusion to his trailblazing career.

Greg Morris

He made one of his final television appearances in a guest role on the 1980s revival of ‘Mission: Impossible’ before his death years later. Morris was an original star of the classic series and his return was a major event for fans. He worked occasionally in the years following his peak fame but eventually stepped back from the industry. He passed away in 1996 after a long battle with cancer. This final appearance allowed him to revisit the character that made him famous.

Don Mitchell

The actor appeared in a 2013 television special related to his most famous show ‘Ironside’ shortly before his death. He was best known for playing the role of Mark Weaver for many seasons in the original drama. Mitchell was a constant presence on television during the 1960s and 1970s. He lived a private life in his later years away from the entertainment business. This final appearance was a nostalgic moment for longtime viewers of his work.

Bernie Casey

The former athlete and actor finished work on the film ‘Vegas Vampires’ shortly before his death in 2017. Casey was known for his roles in action and blaxploitation films as well as his work as a painter. He had a long and varied career that spanned several decades in Hollywood. He passed away in a hospital after a brief illness. This final independent film was a rare late career appearance for the veteran performer.

Anthony Chisholm

The actor appeared in the television series ‘The Dark One’ shortly before he passed away in 2020. He was a Tony Award nominated performer who was highly respected in the theater world. Chisholm was also known for his recurring roles in critically acclaimed television dramas. He died at the age of seventy-seven after a long career of distinguished performances. His final role brought his unique stage presence to the small screen one last time.

Charles Weldon

The veteran actor and director appeared in the series ‘The Gaze’ shortly before his death in 2018. He was a significant figure in Black theater and served as the artistic director of a major theater company. Weldon also appeared in many classic films and television shows throughout his career. He passed away after a short illness at the age of seventy-eight. His final performance was a tribute to his lifelong dedication to the dramatic arts.

Cleavon Little

He filmed a role in an episode of ‘Tales from the Crypt’ shortly before his death in 1992. Little was best known for his starring role in a classic 1974 Western comedy directed by Mel Brooks. He was a versatile actor who won a Tony Award for his work on the Broadway stage. He passed away from colon cancer at the age of fifty-three. This final television role allowed him to show his comedic and dramatic range one last time.

Please share your thoughts on these impactful final performances in the comments.