Samuel L. Jackson, Gabrielle Union and More Pay Tribute to Richard Roundtree: ‘The Coolest Man in the Room’

Samuel L. Jackson, Gabrielle Union and many others are mourning Richard Roundtree, who died Tuesday at the age of 81.

Legendary actor, known for leading the charge for Blaxploitation exploitation with his portrayal of private detective John Shaft in the 1970s Shaft movies, died of pancreatic cancer at his home in Los Angeles, his manager Patrick McMinn confirmed to PEOPLE.

“Working with Richard Roundtree was a dream,” Union wrote x. “To hang out with him and ours Being Mary Jane family was always a good time with the best stories and laughter. He was ALWAYS the coolest man in the room with the BEST vibes and people would literally run to see him. He was simply the best and we all loved him. #RIPRichardRoundwood.”

The two worked together on the BET drama Being Mary Janein which Roundtree played Union’s on-screen father.

Richard Roundtree.

Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Getty

“Richard Roundtree, the prototype, the best to ever do it!!” Jackson wrote on Instagram, paying tribute to his costar.

He shared a photo of himself with Roundtree, dressed in matching gear for their 2019 relaunch. Shaft franchise.

“SHAFT, as we know it is and always will be His creation!! His passing leaves a deep hole not only in my heart, but I’m sure in many of you as well🤎👊🏾👊🏾👊🏾,” Jackson wrote in a heartfelt tribute. “I love you bro, I see you walking down the middle of main street in heaven and Issac conducting your song🎶🎶👊🏾coat blowing in the wind!!”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories

Tia Mowry, who worked with Roundtree on the Netflix series Family gatheringshe said that “there are no words for this loss”.

“Richard, you have made such a lasting impact on my life. I am forever grateful for your warm energy, your light, your heart and your incredible wisdom 🕊️,” she wrote on Instagram. “I’m going to miss you and us hanging out in our trailers – teaching me how to drink some whiskey. I love you.” “Thank you for blessing this world with your gifts 🙏🏿 Rest in Power #RichardRoundtree,” Mowry continued.

Richard Roundtree.

Silver Screen/Getty Collection

Jeffery Wright, who also starred in 2000’s Shaft of the film with Roundtree and Jackson, he also reacted to the news of the actor’s death.

“OG. And a wonderful man. RIP,” he said chirped.

As news of Roundtree’s death continued to spread, others reflected on his impact.

Samuel L. Jackson in the spotlight with original ‘Shaft’ star Richard Roundtree at the Reboot premiere

Loni Love expressed what watching Roundtree meant to her growing up.

“Sad to hear that Richard Roundtree has passed away.. He was fantastic as John Shaft at a time when there were few black leads in film. He made it sexy and cool to be a detective. Rest well. Condolences to his family,” the former talk show host announced x.

Sheryl Lee Ralph also expressed her condolences.

“When I was a teenager I dreamed of growing up and meeting Richard Roundtree,” Abbott Elementary School the star wrote x. “I am and what a wonderful human being.”

Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education