In 2019, Roundtree made a triumphant return to his iconic Shaft role, sharing the screen with Samuel L. Jackson, who portrayed his son in the film. This cinematic journey began in 1971 with the original Shaft movie, directed by the multitalented Gordon Parks, a photographer, composer, and filmmaker. The film featured an unforgettable soundtrack by the legendary Isaac Hayes.
While the original Shaft initially received mixed reviews, with some critics taking issue with its harsh language and occasional violence, it ignited a cultural phenomenon. In a time when the industry was still grappling with issues of representation, some critics had hoped for a more dignified role for Roundtree and other Black actors. However, Gordon Parks responded to such criticism, defending his choice and arguing that the portrayal of Black characters was not limited to stereotypes.
Shaft may have polarized critics, but it became a box office sensation, earning a staggering $12 million against a meager $500,000 budget, solidifying Roundtree’s status as a bona fide star. His outstanding performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination for New Star of the Year.
In the following year, Roundtree reprised his iconic role in “Shaft’s Big Score!”, which garnered commercial success and is now revered more favorably by modern critics than the original. The film was rushed into production, capitalizing on the first film’s success.
Roundtree returned to don the trench coat as Shaft once again in “Shaft In Africa” (1973), directed by John Guillermin. However, this installment failed both commercially and critically, partly due to the growing competition from other Blaxploitation films inspired by the 1971 original. Even James Bond adapted elements of the genre with “Live And Let Die” (1973), released shortly after “Shaft In Africa.”
After the series’ cinematic downturn, MGM attempted to revive it through a TV adaptation with a structure similar to “Columbo.” Unfortunately, this endeavor was short-lived, as it was canceled after just one season. Roundtree himself criticized the series for its pro-police stance, which was inconsistent with the edgier tone of the films.
Decades later, Roundtree made a triumphant return as John Shaft in the 2000 sequel directed by John Singleton and starring Samuel L. Jackson as Shaft’s nephew. His final portrayal of the iconic detective was in the 2019 sequel, where Samuel L. Jackson continued his role as Shaft, now joined by Jessie T. Usher as a third-generation Shaft.
Born in 1942 in New Rochelle, New York, Richard Roundtree initially pursued a career as a model, moving to New York City on the advice of Bill Cosby. He soon transitioned to acting and made his major film debut as the title character in “Shaft,” a role that transformed his career and established him as a sought-after actor.
Roundtree’s filmography extended beyond Shaft, encompassing a range of classic and popular movies, including “Man Friday” (1975), “Inchon” (1981), “City Heat” (1984), “Earthquake” (1974), “Maniac Cop” (1988), “Se7en” (1995), “George Of The Jungle” (1997), and “Brick” (2005). His diverse roles showcased his versatility as an actor.
Additionally, Roundtree expressed pride in his performance in the 1996 film “Once Upon a Time … When We Were Colored,” which depicted the challenges of a Black family in Mississippi during the mid-20th century.
Despite the challenges he faced with the Shaft TV series, Roundtree experienced a significant triumph with his role as the slave Sam Bennett in the classic 1977 miniseries “Roots,” based on Alex Haley’s novel. His television career also included appearances in series such as “Alias,” “Generations,” “Desperate Housewives,” “Being Mary Jane,” “Diary Of A Single Mom,” “Soul Food,” and more.
In the 1990s, Roundtree openly discussed his battle with breast cancer, emphasizing that it is not a gender-specific issue. His willingness to speak out about his experience contributed to raising awareness of this issue among men.
Throughout his personal life, Roundtree was married to Mary Jane Grant from 1963 to 1973, and later to Karen Michelle Ciernia in 1980, with whom he remained married until 1998. He is survived by his daughters Kelli, Nicole, Tayler, and Morgan, as well as his son John.
Richard Roundtree’s indelible legacy will be remembered not only for his groundbreaking role as John Shaft but also for his diverse contributions to the world of film and television, as well as his willingness to bring important health issues to the forefront. His impact on the entertainment industry and his inspiring resilience in the face of adversity will continue to resonate for generations to come.
RIP.
