Chicago Fire actor Richard Roundtree dies at 81
Richard Roundtree has died at the age of 81, his manager, Patrick McMinn, confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter. According to the publication, the actor passed away at his home in Los Angeles, following a pancreatic cancer diagnosis. He is survived by his five children, and at least one grandchild.
Internationally recognized as "the first black action hero" following his portrayal of private detective John Shaft in the hit crime thriller Shaft (1971), Richard enjoyed a successful decade-spanning career in Hollywood.
Among his best-known movies, the star appeared in Man Friday (1975), City Heat (1984) Se7en (1995), Speed Racer (2008) and What Men Want (2019). As for his TV credits, Richard landed roles in Magnum, P.I. (1983), Beverly Hills, 90210 (1991), Desperate Housewives (2004-2005), and Private Practice (2012).
Fans of Chicago Fire may also remember Richard's performance as Wallace Boden Sr. – aka the father of Chief Boden, played by Eamonn Walker.
Following the news of Richard's passing, a number of A-listers have taken to X, formerly known as Twitter, to pay tribute.
Among them, actress Gabrielle Union, tweeted: "Working with Richard Roundtree was a dream. Getting to hang with him & our Being Mary Jane family was always a good [expletive] time with the best stories & laughs.
"He was ALWAYS the coolest man in the room with the BEST vibes & ppl would literally run over to come see him. He was simply the best & we all loved him. #RIPRichardRoundtree."
Samuel L.Jackson, who acted alongside Richard in Shaft (2000), has also expressed his admiration for the star, writing: "The passing of Richard Roundtree is a real blow. Loved being around him, learning, working, laughing & feeling Blessed to have an idol live up to who I expected him to be!! Thanks for making us feel REAL GOOD about ourselves! Rest In Power."
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Meanwhile, Director Rian Johnson shared a sweet memory of Richard. "20 years ago the LEGEND Richard Roundtree did one day on my 1st movie Brick," he began.
"It was a tiny weird movie, we were a set full of kids, and he was so kind & generous & patient, and even hung out with us all that night. Incredible guy, incredible career."
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