Legendary actor Louis Gossett Jr., known for his powerful performances on both the big and small screens, has passed away at the age of 85.
In addition to his acting career, Gossett was also a talented folk singer in the 1960s, performing in Greenwich Village coffee houses alongside Richie Havens. The duo co-wrote the antiwar song “Handsome Johnny,” which Havens recorded in 1966 and later sang at Woodstock.
Gossett’s filmography includes a wide range of roles, from playing a man on the brink of insanity in “The Landlord” (1970) to portraying a Bahamian drug dealer in “The Deep” (1977). He also made over 100 television appearances, showcasing his versatility in both lighthearted comedies like “The Partridge Family” and dramas like “Madam Secretary.”
Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Gossett faced personal challenges in his marriages, with his unions to Hattie Glascoe, Christina Mangosing, and Cyndi James Reese all ending in divorce. He is survived by his sons, Satie and Sharron Gossett, as well as several grandchildren.
In a poignant Television Academy interview, Gossett emphasized the power of the arts in effecting political and social change, urging fellow actors to use their platform for good. “The arts can achieve it overnight,” he said. “We can get to them quicker than anybody else.”
Gossett’s legacy as a talented actor and advocate for social change will continue to inspire future generations in the entertainment industry. Rest in peace, Louis Gossett Jr.
