Richard Roundtree, Pioneer of Black Action Films and Star of 'Shaft', Dies at 81

Iconic actor leaves a legacy spanning five decades, highlighted by groundbreaking role in "Shaft" which established the foundation of black action films.

Richard Roundtree, renowned for his portrayal of the character John Shaft, is considered the first Black action movie hero, symbolizing a 'winner', away from racial torment - a groundbreaking concept at the time.
Roundtree's Shaft character garnered attention for its theme song by Isaac Hayes, which won the 1972 Academy Award for best original song, boosting his fame and character's legacy.
After 'Shaft', Roundtree made varied acting choices in film and TV, joining an ensemble cast for the disaster movie 'Earthquake', playing Booker T. Washington in a TV movie, and appearing in 60 episodes of the soap opera 'Generations'.
Although Roundtree is most recognized for his work in the 70s, he remained active in the entertainment industry for the next four decades, making appearances in over 25 television series and more than 20 feature films.
Roundtree's legacy extends past his death with the enduring Shaft character, which has been reprised with Hollywood alterations, with actors like Samuel L. Jackson playing characters associated or related to the original Shaft.