Actor Richard Roundtree has died, his manager Patrick Mcminn confirmed to Variety. Roundtree died at his home on Tuesday after battling pancreatic cancer for some time. He was 81 years old.
He began his career as a model before landing the role of detective Shaft in the action films of the same name at the age of 28. Shaft was later remade in more recent years by actor Samuel L. Jackson, who played Shaft's nephew in the film and wrote on his Instagram:
"Richard Roundtree, The Prototype, The best To Ever Do it! SHAFT, as we know it is & will always be his creation! His passing leaves a deep hole not only in my heart, but i'm sure a lotta y'all's, too. Love you Brother, i see you walking down the middle of Main street in heaven & Issac's conducting your song, coat blowing in the wind! Angels whispering, "That cat Shaft is a Bad Mutha, Shutcho Mouth! But i'm talkin'bout SHAFT! Then we can digit "
Richard Roundtree leaves behind a son and four daughters.