Black Actors You Might Not Know Have Passed Away

The world of entertainment has lost many legendary figures and beloved character actors in recent years who left an indelible mark on cinema and television. While some of these losses made global headlines, others may have slipped under the radar of casual fans despite their significant contributions to the industry. This list honors the legacy of these talented black actors who entertained audiences for decades with their charisma and skill. Their performances range from iconic action heroes to memorable sitcom fathers and dramatic powerhouses.

James Earl Jones

This legendary actor possessed one of the most recognizable voices in entertainment history and passed away in 2024 at the age of 93. He famously provided the menacing voice of Darth Vader in the ‘Star Wars’ franchise and the regal Mufasa in ‘The Lion King’. Jones was one of the few entertainers to achieve EGOT status by winning Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards during his distinguished career. His commanding presence on stage and screen paved the way for countless actors who followed in his footsteps.

Carl Weathers

Best known for his role as Apollo Creed in the ‘Rocky’ film series, this former professional football player became a beloved action star and dramatic actor. Weathers showcased his range by playing the resourceful Greef Karga in ‘The Mandalorian’ and displaying impressive comedic timing in ‘Arrested Development’. He passed away in February 2024 and left behind a legacy defined by charisma and physical prowess. His contributions to the action genre remain celebrated by fans across multiple generations.

Louis Gossett Jr.

Gossett made history as the first black man to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as the tough drill instructor in ‘An Officer and a Gentleman’. His career spanned over six decades and included a memorable performance as Fiddler in the groundbreaking miniseries ‘Roots’. He continued working well into his later years and brought gravitas to every project he touched until his death in March 2024. He was a trailblazer who opened doors for actors of color in Hollywood through his excellence and perseverance.

John Amos

Audiences revered John Amos for his portrayal of the stern but loving patriarch James Evans Sr. on the hit sitcom ‘Good Times’. He also played the adult Kunta Kinte in the miniseries ‘Roots’ and appeared as a rival restaurant owner in the classic comedy ‘Coming to America’. Amos passed away in August 2024 after a career that solidified him as one of the quintessential television fathers. His work consistently highlighted the strength and dignity of the black family unit.

Bill Cobbs

With a face that audiences instantly recognized from hundreds of film and television appearances, Bill Cobbs was the definition of a working character actor. He charmed viewers as the security guard in ‘Night at the Museum’ and brought warmth to films like ‘The Bodyguard’ and ‘Air Bud’. Cobbs passed away in June 2024 at the age of 90 after decades of reliable and memorable performances. His ability to elevate any scene with his quiet dignity made him a favorite among directors and casting agents.

Tony Todd

Horror fans revere Tony Todd for his terrifying and tragic portrayal of the title character in the ‘Candyman’ franchise. His imposing stature and deep voice also made him unforgettable in ‘Final Destination’ and as a voice actor for various superhero animated series. Todd passed away in November 2024 and left a void in the genre community that revered him as an icon. He brought a unique mixture of elegance and menace to villains and anti-heroes throughout his prolific career.

Andre Braugher

Braugher was a master of television drama who stunned audiences with his intense portrayal of Detective Frank Pembleton in ‘Homicide: Life on the Street’. He later gained a new legion of fans by showing his deadpan comedic brilliance as Captain Raymond Holt in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. His sudden death in December 2023 at the age of 61 shocked the industry and his devoted fanbase. He was widely regarded as one of the most talented and versatile actors of his generation.

Richard Roundtree

Roundtree became a cinematic icon in the 1970s as the smooth and tough private detective John Shaft in the film ‘Shaft’. His performance defined the blaxploitation genre and established a new archetype for black action heroes in American movies. He continued to act in major projects like ‘Heroes’ and ‘Being Mary Jane’ until his passing in October 2023. Roundtree remains a symbol of cool confidence and cultural empowerment for film lovers worldwide.

Lance Reddick

Known for playing authoritative and intense characters, Lance Reddick was a standout performer in ‘The Wire’ and the ‘John Wick’ film franchise. He used his distinctive voice and commanding posture to play high-ranking police officers and mysterious power players. Reddick passed away unexpectedly in March 2023 just before the release of his latest blockbuster film appearance. Gamers also mourned him deeply for his significant voice work in the ‘Destiny’ and ‘Horizon’ video game series.

Ron Cephas Jones

This veteran theater actor found mainstream fame late in life with his Emmy-winning role as William Hill in the drama series ‘This Is Us’. His poignant performance as a recovering addict trying to reconnect with his son moved millions of viewers to tears. Jones passed away in August 2023 after a long battle with pulmonary issues. His career served as a testament to the idea that perseverance in the arts can lead to profound success at any age.

Chance Perdomo

A rising star in the industry, Chance Perdomo gained popularity for his roles in ‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’ and the superhero series ‘Gen V’. His charm and energy on screen promised a long and successful career in Hollywood before tragedy struck. He died in a motorcycle accident in March 2024 at the tragically young age of 27. His untimely passing cut short the journey of a talented young actor who was just beginning to show his full potential.

Harry Belafonte

While known primarily as a groundbreaking singer and activist, Harry Belafonte was also a gifted actor who starred in films like ‘Carmen Jones’ and ‘Buck and the Preacher’. He used his celebrity platform to fight for civil rights and often chose roles that challenged racial stereotypes of the era. Belafonte passed away in April 2023 at the age of 96 after a lifetime of artistic and humanitarian service. His contributions to film paved the way for future generations of black leading men.

Jim Brown

Starting his career as one of the greatest football players in history, Jim Brown successfully transitioned to Hollywood as an action star. He headlined films like ‘The Dirty Dozen’ and ‘100 Rifles’ where he broke barriers with influential on-screen interracial romances. Brown passed away in May 2023 and left behind a complex legacy of athletic dominance and cinematic toughness. He remains one of the few athletes to carve out a genuinely credible and enduring career in acting.

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier was a titan of cinema who became the first black man to win the Best Actor Oscar for ‘Lilies of the Field’. He starred in socially conscious classics such as ‘In the Heat of the Night’ and ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’. Poitier passed away in January 2022 and left an unmatched legacy of dignity and grace that transformed the image of black men in media. His work during the civil rights era provided a cultural touchstone for changing American attitudes toward race.

Michael Kenneth Williams

Few actors have created a character as indelible as Omar Little, the role Michael K. Williams played on the HBO series ‘The Wire’. He brought deep humanity to complex characters in shows like ‘Boardwalk Empire’ and ‘Lovecraft Country’. Williams passed away in September 2021 and was mourned as a brilliant talent who often highlighted the struggles of the marginalized. His trademark facial scar and intense charisma made him a captivating presence in every scene he inhabited.

Clarence Williams III

Clarence Williams III became a counterculture icon as the cool undercover cop Linc Hayes in the classic series ‘The Mod Squad’. He later reinvented himself as a character actor with memorable roles in ‘Purple Rain’ and the comedy ‘Half Baked’. He passed away in June 2021 after a career that spanned nearly five decades of stage and screen work. His ability to oscillate between intense drama and absurd comedy showcased his immense range.

Yaphet Kotto

This powerhouse actor brought intensity to roles like the villain Kananga in the James Bond film ‘Live and Let Die’ and engineer Parker in ‘Alien’. Kotto was also a staple of television as the rigid Lieutenant Giardello in ‘Homicide: Life on the Street’. He passed away in March 2021 and left behind a filmography filled with authoritative and memorable characters. He often played men of few words who commanded respect the moment they walked into a room.

Chadwick Boseman

The world was stunned when Chadwick Boseman passed away in August 2020 after a private four-year battle with colon cancer. He became a global icon for his portrayal of King T’Challa in the Marvel blockbuster ‘Black Panther’. He also brought historical figures like Jackie Robinson and James Brown to life with incredible accuracy and passion. His work ethic and talent inspired millions while he silently endured grueling medical treatments.

John Witherspoon

Witherspoon was a comedic legend known for playing grumpy but lovable fathers in projects like ‘Friday’ and ‘The Wayans Bros’. His distinctive voice and improvisational skills made him a scene-stealer in ‘The Boondocks’ as Granddad Freeman. He passed away in October 2019 and left a void in the world of black comedy that has yet to be filled. His ability to turn mundane domestic situations into hilarious memorable moments was unmatched.

Reg E. Cathey

With his distinctively deep and resonant voice, Reg E. Cathey became a fan favorite in shows like ‘The Wire’ and ‘House of Cards’. He won an Emmy Award for his guest role as Freddy Hayes in the latter series. Cathey passed away in February 2018 after battling lung cancer. He was known among his peers for his intellect and his ability to elevate supporting roles into essential parts of a story.

Bill Nunn

Bill Nunn is eternally recognized as Radio Raheem in Spike Lee’s masterpiece ‘Do the Right Thing’. He also played Robbie Robertson in the original ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy and had a long career playing various authority figures. Nunn passed away in September 2016 in his hometown of Pittsburgh. His portrayal of Radio Raheem remains one of the most powerful symbols of social justice in cinema history.

Robert Guillaume

Guillaume won two Emmy Awards for his sophisticated and witty portrayal of Benson DuBois in the sitcoms ‘Soap’ and ‘Benson’. He also provided the wise voice of Rafiki in the animated classic ‘The Lion King’. He passed away in October 2017 after a distinguished career in television and musical theater. He was a pioneer who broke barriers for black actors in leading television roles during the late 1970s and 80s.

Michael Clarke Duncan

Duncan used his massive physique to play the gentle giant John Coffey in ‘The Green Mile’, a role that earned him an Academy Award nomination. He appeared in blockbusters like ‘Armageddon’ and ‘Daredevil’ where his presence was always larger than life. He passed away in September 2012 following a heart attack. Duncan was beloved by fans and co-stars alike for his infectious smile and surprisingly soft-spoken nature off camera.

James Avery

Generations of television viewers know James Avery as the strict but loving Uncle Phil from ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. He was also the voice of the villainous Shredder in the original ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ animated series. Avery passed away in December 2013 following complications from heart surgery. His portrayal of Philip Banks set the gold standard for television fathers and mentors.

Sherman Hemsley

Hemsley created one of television’s most memorable characters as the strutting and opinionated George Jefferson in ‘The Jeffersons’. He continued to play high-energy characters in shows like ‘Amen’ and remained a television fixture for decades. He passed away in July 2012 at his home in El Paso, Texas. Hemsley was a private man whose exuberant on-screen persona defined a specific era of American sitcom history.

Bernie Mac

Bernie Mac was a comedy king known for his fearless stand-up routines and his hit sitcom ‘The Bernie Mac Show’. He appeared in major films like ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ and ‘Transformers’ before his untimely death. He passed away in August 2008 due to complications from pneumonia. His unique delivery and willingness to speak his mind made him one of the chaotic geniuses of modern comedy.

Isaac Hayes

A soulful musician and actor, Isaac Hayes is famously known as the voice of Chef in the animated series ‘South Park’. He won an Academy Award for the ‘Theme from Shaft’ and acted in numerous films including ‘Escape from New York’. Hayes passed away in August 2008 shortly after suffering a stroke. His deep baritone voice and musical contributions remain legendary in both the music and film industries.

Paul Winfield

Paul Winfield was a highly respected actor who earned an Oscar nomination for his role in the drama ‘Sounder’. He played Captain Terrell in ‘Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan’ and had memorable roles in ‘The Terminator’ and ‘Mars Attacks!’. He passed away in March 2004 after a career defined by intelligence and versatility. Winfield was known for bringing a sense of refined dignity to every character he portrayed.

Gregory Hines

Hines was a dazzling tap dancer and actor who starred in films like ‘White Nights’ and ‘Running Scared’. He revitalized the art of tap dancing for a modern audience and won a Tony Award for his work on Broadway. He passed away from liver cancer in August 2003 at the age of 57. Hines is remembered as a dynamic performer who seamlessly blended athleticism with acting talent.

Roscoe Lee Browne

With a voice that was often described as velvety and aristocratic, Roscoe Lee Browne was a standout character actor in theater and film. He appeared in ‘The Cowboys’ alongside John Wayne and voiced characters in ‘Oliver & Company’ and ‘Spider-Man’. He passed away in April 2007 after a long career that garnered him an Emmy Award. Browne famously refused to play stereotypical roles and maintained a standard of excellence throughout his life.

Ossie Davis

Ossie Davis was a giant of the American stage and screen who often worked alongside his wife Ruby Dee. He appeared in Spike Lee films like ‘Do the Right Thing’ and ‘Jungle Fever’ while maintaining a lifelong commitment to civil rights activism. Davis passed away in February 2005 and was eulogized as a fierce advocate for social justice. His deep voice and commanding presence made him a natural leader both on and off the camera.

Moses Gunn

Moses Gunn was a celebrated stage actor who founded the Negro Ensemble Company and appeared in ‘Shaft’ as the gangster Bumpy Jonas. He also played a memorable role in ‘The NeverEnding Story’ as the Empress’s servant Cairon. Gunn passed away in December 1993 from asthma complications. He was a pioneer in the theater world who helped launch the careers of many other black actors.

Cleavon Little

Comedy fans will always remember Cleavon Little as the quick-witted Sheriff Bart in Mel Brooks’s satire ‘Blazing Saddles’. He won a Tony Award early in his career and brought a sharp intelligence to his comedic roles. Little passed away in October 1992 due to colon cancer. His performance in ‘Blazing Saddles’ remains a masterclass in breaking the fourth wall and dismantling racial prejudice through humor.

Nelsan Ellis

Ellis stole every scene he was in as the flamboyant and sharp-tongued Lafayette Reynolds in the HBO vampire drama ‘True Blood’. He also portrayed singer Bobby Byrd in the James Brown biopic ‘Get On Up’. He passed away in July 2017 at the young age of 39 due to heart failure. Ellis was a gifted actor who brought incredible depth and vulnerability to characters that could have easily been caricatures.

Earle Hyman

Best known to children of the 80s as the voice of Panthro in ‘Thundercats’, Earle Hyman was also a classically trained Shakespearean actor. He gained widespread recognition as Cliff Huxtable’s father Russell on ‘The Cosby Show’. Hyman passed away in November 2017 at the age of 91. He was a passionate advocate for the arts and learned Norwegian specifically to perform Ibsen plays in their original language.

Meshach Taylor

Taylor charmed audiences as the lovable assistant Anthony Bouvier on the hit sitcom ‘Designing Women’. His comedic chemistry with the cast earned him an Emmy nomination and a lasting place in television history. He passed away in June 2014 after a battle with cancer. Taylor showcased an ability to play broadly comic roles while maintaining a sense of genuine warmth and humanity.

Thomas Mikal Ford

Fans of 90s television instantly recognize Tommy Ford as the level-headed best friend on the hit sitcom ‘Martin’. He was known for his infectious laugh and his role as the straight man to Martin Lawrence’s chaotic antics. Ford passed away in October 2016 following a ruptured aneurysm. His contributions to black sitcom history remain celebrated by fans who still quote his lines today.

Frank McRae

Frank McRae was a former professional football player who became a reliable character actor in films like ‘Licence to Kill’ and ‘Last Action Hero’. He often played shouting police captains or tough guys with a surprising comedic edge. McRae passed away in April 2021 at the age of 80. His distinct presence made him a favorite choice for directors needing an imposing authority figure.

Samuel E. Wright

While his face might not be instantly recognizable, his voice is cherished by millions as Sebastian the crab in ‘The Little Mermaid’. Wright sang the Oscar-winning song ‘Under the Sea’ and had a successful career on Broadway, including playing Mufasa in ‘The Lion King’. He passed away in May 2021 after a battle with prostate cancer. Wright brought a joyful Caribbean spirit to one of Disney’s most enduring animated characters.

Roger E. Mosley

Mosley is best known for his role as the helicopter pilot T.C. in the original ‘Magnum, P.I.’ series alongside Tom Selleck. He appeared in dozens of films and television shows often playing tough but loyal friends. Mosley passed away in August 2022 following a car accident. He was a foundational part of 80s television culture and a skilled actor who brought heart to action-heavy roles.

Clarence Gilyard Jr.

Gilyard had prominent roles in two massive television hits as the computer expert Theo in ‘Die Hard’ and Ranger Trivette in ‘Walker, Texas Ranger’. He also played the private investigator Conrad McMasters in ‘Matlock’. He passed away in November 2022 after a long illness. Gilyard eventually left Hollywood to become a theater professor and taught the next generation of actors until his death.

Ricky Harris

This comedian and actor was a staple of 90s entertainment who appeared in ‘Poetic Justice’ and played Malvo in ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. He was also known for voicing characters in various hip-hop skits for artists like Snoop Dogg. Harris passed away in December 2016 from a heart attack. He was a versatile performer who could handle gritty street dramas and lighthearted family comedies with equal skill.

Reynaldo Rey

Rey was a comedian and character actor who frequently appeared in films like ‘Friday’ and ‘White Men Can’t Jump’. He was known for his distinct look and his ability to turn small supporting roles into memorable comedic moments. He passed away in May 2015 after suffering a stroke. Rey was a fixture of the black comedy circuit and toured with some of the biggest names in the industry.

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