Louis Gossett Jr., the first African-American to receive an Oscar for best supporting actor, died at the age of 87 in California, according to information from the artist's relatives. Gosset is also known for his Emmy Award, the actor died Friday morning in Santa Monica.
The news of the death of Louis Gossett Jr. was published by the Associated Press, which spoke to his cousin, Neal L. Gossett, for more details. His death marks the loss of an outstanding figure who leaves behind an extensive filmography and multiple recognitions, including an Oscar.
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Who was Louis Gossett Jr.?
Louis Gossett Jr. was born in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, and raised with his parents, Hellen Rebecca Wray Gossett and Louis Gossett. After high school, he attended New York University on an athletic scholarship and played baseball and basketball. However, he left the sport to focus on acting. After graduating in 1959, he had the opportunity to join the New York Knicks, but opted for his acting career, which seemed more lucrative.
Louis Gossett Jr. is known for his role as Fiddler in the 1977 series 'Roots', which earned him an Emmy Award. In addition, Gossett Jr. participated in various series and films, but one in which he stood out the most was in 'An Officer and a Gentleman' in 1982 alongside Richard Gere and Debra Winger, where he played Sergeant Foley and won an Oscar for best actor in distribution. He also starred in 'Jaws 3-D' from 1983, 'Enemy Mine' from 1985 and the 'Iron Eagle' saga from 1986-1995, among others. His career spans a wide range of roles, from comedies to science fiction and action.
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