Toni Vaz, Pioneering Stuntwoman and NAACP Image Awards Founder, Dies at 101

Vaz, who broke barriers in Hollywood and founded the NAACP Image Awards, passed away on October 4 at the Motion Picture & Television Fund campus.

Toni Vaz was a groundbreaking actress and stunt performer, known for doubling for stars like Cicely Tyson and appearing in over 50 films and TV shows.
She founded the NAACP Image Awards in 1967 to honor and elevate Black performers, despite initially not receiving recognition for her role in its creation.
Vaz's contributions were formally acknowledged in 2000 with an Image Award trophy and a tribute at the 2019 ceremony.
She was set to be honored with a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame in 2025, though it is unclear if this will occur posthumously.
Vaz is survived by her nephew, niece, and extended family, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.