Black Actors Who Sadly Died of Cancer

The world of entertainment has lost many brilliant talents to the devastating effects of cancer. These men left an indelible mark on film and television with their charisma and dedication to the craft of acting. Their performances continue to inspire new generations of artists and fans even after their untimely passing. It is important to honor their legacies and remember the joy they brought to audiences around the globe. Here is a look at some of the distinguished Black actors we have lost to this disease.

Chadwick Boseman

Chadwick Boseman rose to international fame for his portrayal of King T’Challa in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film ‘Black Panther’. The actor privately battled colon cancer for four years while filming several blockbusters. He continued to work tirelessly through multiple surgeries and chemotherapy treatments until his passing in 2020. His dedication to his craft during such a debilitating illness remains a testament to his strength and character. Boseman left behind a legacy of culturally significant roles that inspired millions around the world.

Andre Braugher

Andre Braugher captivated audiences with his commanding presence in dramas like ‘Homicide: Life on the Street’ and comedies such as ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. His representative confirmed that the actor passed away in late 2023 after a brief battle with lung cancer. Braugher was celebrated for his ability to bring gravitas and humanity to complex characters throughout his career. He earned two Emmy Awards and received numerous nominations for his outstanding television work. The industry mourned the loss of a versatile performer who effortlessly bridged the gap between serious drama and deadpan humor.

Richard Roundtree

Richard Roundtree became a cinematic icon for his defining role as the private detective in the 1971 film ‘Shaft’. He was initially diagnosed with male breast cancer in 1993 and became a vocal advocate for early detection and awareness. The actor sadly passed away in 2023 at the age of 81 after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. His career spanned five decades and paved the way for future generations of Black leading men in Hollywood. Roundtree remained a working actor and a symbol of coolness until the very end of his life.

Gregory Hines

Gregory Hines dazzled the world as a phenomenal tap dancer and actor in films such as ‘White Nights’ and ‘The Cotton Club’. He successfully transitioned from Broadway stages to Hollywood screens with his unique blend of charm and athletic talent. The entertainer died in 2003 at the age of 57 following a diagnosis of liver cancer. Hines is credited with revitalizing interest in tap dancing in America during the late twentieth century. His contributions to the arts earned him a Tony Award and enduring respect within the entertainment community.

Sherman Hemsley

Sherman Hemsley is best remembered for his iconic portrayal of the opinionated George Jefferson in the sitcom ‘The Jeffersons’. He brought a frantic energy and comedic brilliance to the role that made the show a television staple for over a decade. The actor passed away in 2012 due to a complication known as superior vena cava syndrome caused by a mass on his lung. Hemsley had been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer prior to his death at his home in El Paso. Fans continue to cherish his work for its humor and its groundbreaking depiction of an affluent Black family.

Robert Guillaume

Robert Guillaume won the hearts of viewers as the sophisticated butler in the series ‘Soap’ and its spinoff ‘Benson’. He also provided the wise voice of Rafiki in the animated classic ‘The Lion King’. The actor died in 2017 at age 89 from complications related to prostate cancer. Guillaume overcame early career struggles to become one of the most distinguished television actors of his time. His work garnered him two Emmy Awards and a Grammy Award during his illustrious career.

Sammy Davis Jr.

Sammy Davis Jr. was a legendary multifaceted entertainer known for his singing and acting in the Rat Pack films like ‘Ocean’s 11’. A lifetime of heavy smoking eventually led to a diagnosis of throat cancer in his later years. He passed away in 1990 at the age of 64 after the disease progressed significantly. Davis broke numerous racial barriers in the entertainment industry and remained a dynamic performer despite his health struggles. His legacy endures as one of the greatest all-around entertainers in American history.

Clarence Williams III

Clarence Williams III gained fame as the cool undercover cop Linc Hayes in the counterculture series ‘The Mod Squad’. His career included memorable performances in films such as ‘Purple Rain’ and ‘Tales from the Hood’. The actor died in 2021 at the age of 81 after a battle with colon cancer. He was known for his intense screen presence and his ability to convey deep emotion with minimal dialogue. Williams left a lasting impact on television and film with his distinct style and powerful acting range.

Reg E. Cathey

Reg E. Cathey was a beloved character actor recognized for his deep voice and roles in ‘The Wire’ and ‘House of Cards’. He won an Emmy Award for his guest performance in the latter series shortly before his death. The actor passed away in 2018 at age 59 after struggling with lung cancer. Cathey was widely respected by his peers for his kindness and his consistent delivery of high-quality performances. His work enriched many critically acclaimed projects and left a void in the acting community.

Scatman Crothers

Scatman Crothers was a musician and actor who appeared in ‘The Shining’ and provided the voice for Jazz in the ‘Transformers’ cartoon. He was known for his raspy voice and engaging personality that endeared him to audiences of all ages. The entertainer was a heavy smoker for most of his life and was eventually diagnosed with lung cancer. He died from the disease in 1986 at his home in California. Crothers remains a beloved figure for his memorable contributions to both live-action cinema and animation.

Flip Wilson

Flip Wilson was a groundbreaking comedian and actor who hosted his own successful variety show in the 1970s. He became one of the first African American performers to gain massive popularity with a broad mainstream audience on television. Wilson passed away in 1998 at the age of 64 following a battle with liver cancer. His show earned him a Golden Globe and two Emmy Awards during its run. He is remembered for his original characters and his ability to tell stories that resonated with diverse viewers.

Bill Nunn

Bill Nunn made an indelible mark on cinema as Radio Raheem in Spike Lee’s film ‘Do the Right Thing’. He also appeared as Joseph Robertson in the Sam Raimi ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy. The actor passed away in 2016 at the age of 63 after battling leukemia. Nunn was a frequent collaborator with Spike Lee and brought a profound intensity to his roles. His character Radio Raheem remains a symbol of cultural resistance and tragedy in film history.

Earle Hyman

Earle Hyman was a distinguished stage and screen actor best known as Russell Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’. He also provided the voice for Panthro in the animated series ‘ThunderCats’. The actor died in 2017 at the age of 91 from stomach cancer. Hyman had a prestigious career in theater and was particularly noted for his performances in Shakespearean plays and works by Henrik Ibsen. His portrayal of a wise grandfather figure on television made him a familiar and comforting presence to millions.

Brock Peters

Brock Peters delivered a powerhouse performance as Tom Robinson in the 1962 film classic ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’. He was also known for his deep voice which he lent to Darth Vader in the radio drama adaptation of ‘Star Wars’. The actor died in 2005 at the age of 78 due to complications from pancreatic cancer. Peters enjoyed a long career that included roles in ‘Star Trek’ films and numerous stage productions. His dignity and commanding presence on screen helped challenge racial stereotypes in Hollywood.

Lou Rawls

Lou Rawls was a soulful singer and actor who sold millions of records and appeared in films like ‘Leaving Las Vegas’. His velvety voice earned him three Grammy Awards and a long career in the music and entertainment industry. Rawls was diagnosed with lung cancer that eventually spread to his brain. He passed away in 2006 at the age of 72 while seeking treatment in Los Angeles. His charitable work with the United Negro College Fund raised millions of dollars for education.

Please share your favorite memories or performances from these talented actors in the comments.