Samuel L. Jackson has taken to his Instagram to pay an emotional tribute, to his friend and co-star, Richard Roundtree, who tragically passed away after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.
The Hollywood star, known for his role in the Shaft film franchise, died at home in Los Angeles on Tuesday at the age of 81. Amongst many other celebrities, Samuel L. Jackson has penned a tribute to the star, calling him “the best to ever do it.”
Samuel L. Jackson tributes Shaft co-star Richard Roundtree
Taking to his 8.2 million Instagram followers, the 74-year-old posted tribute to his Shaft co-star, after the tragic news of his passing.
Sharing a picture of the two on set, in the caption he penned: “Richard Roundtree, The Prototype, The Best To Ever Do It!! SHAFT, as we know it is & will always be His Creation!! His passing leaves a deep hole not only in my heart, but I’m sure a lotta y’all’s, too.
“Love you Brother, I see you walking down the Middle of Main Street in Heaven & Issac’s Conducting your song, coat blowin’ in wind!!
“Angels whispering, “That Cat SHAFT Is A Bad Mutha, Shutcho Mouth!! But I’m Talkin’ Bout SHAFT!! THEN WE CAN DIGIT,” he concluded.
The pair starred together in the 1971 movie, where Jackson played the nephew of John Shaft, played by Roundtree.
They then both appeared together in both the 2000 film and another Shaft sequel in 2019.
Remembering Richard Roundtree
Richard Roundtree began his acting career in the early 60s, and landed his iconic role as detective John Shaft at the age of just 29.
As well as his successful movie career, he also featured in a number of hit TV shows, including appearnces in The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, alongside Will Smith.
In a statement to the Hollywood Reporter, his manager, Patrick McMinn said:
“Richard’s work and career served as a turning point for African American leading men in film. The impact he had on the industry cannot be overstated.”
The star is survived by his five children, four daughters, Kelli, Nicole, Taylor and Morgan and his son, John.