Louis Gossett Jr., a trailblazing actor known for his roles in Roots and An Officer and a Gentleman, passed away at the age of 87 in Santa Monica. The news of his death was reported by his nephew to the Associated Press. Born in Brooklyn, New York, on May 27, 1936, Gossett made his stage debut at the age of 17 in a school production. His talent soon caught the eye of Broadway producers, leading to successful auditions for prominent productions like Take a Giant Step and A Raisin in the Sun.
Gossett’s career spanned both stage and screen, with notable performances in Broadway plays such as Tambourines to Glory, Golden Boy, The Zulu and the Zayda, and My Sweet Charlie. In the late 1960s, he transitioned to television with appearances in series like The Invaders and Daktari. However, it was his role as Fiddler in the acclaimed miniseries Roots in 1977 that solidified his status as a TV icon. Gossett’s portrayal earned him an Emmy award, paving the way for a successful television career that lasted until 2019, with roles in shows like Watchmen.
While Gossett made a name for himself on television, it was his performance as Gunnery Sergeant Emil Foley in An Officer and a Gentleman that garnered him critical acclaim in the world of cinema. His portrayal of a tough drill sergeant alongside Richard Gere earned him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, a historic achievement for a Black actor. Gossett’s success in film continued with roles in movies like The Punisher, Toy Soldiers, and The Color Purple, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Throughout his career, Gossett’s talent shone brightly in both episodic TV and film, with roles in a wide range of projects from the 1980s to the early 2000s. In addition to his professional achievements, Gossett was married three times and is survived by his sons Satie Gossett and Sharron, as well as his nephew, actor Robert Gossett. Louis Gossett Jr.’s legacy as a pioneering actor and entertainer will continue to inspire future generations in the world of performing arts.