Louis Gossett Jr. dies at 87: what movies did he star in and how many awards did he get?

The world of cinema mourns the passing of Louis Gossett Jr., a legendary actor whose captivating performances graced screens for over six decades. He passed away on Friday, 29 March, 2024, at the age of 87, leaving behind a rich filmography and legacy.

Louis Gossett Jr.’s filmography

Debuting in 1961 with “A Raisin in the Sun,” he tackled social issues in “The Landlord” and “Skin Game.” He showcased his range in comedies like “Travels with My Aunt” and dramas like “The White Dawn.”

His breakthrough came with the miniseries “Roots,” earning him an Emmy for his powerful portrayal of Fiddler. More recognition was to come through the iconic role of Drill Instructor Foley in “An Officer and a Gentleman”, making him the first Black actor to win a Best Supporting Actor Oscar.

Gossett Jr. thrived in diverse genres. He faced a killer shark in “Jaws 3-D,” formed an unlikely bond in the sci-fi film “Enemy Mine,” and became a fan favorite in action flicks like “Iron Eagle” and “The Punisher.” He brought warmth to “Daddy’s Little Girls” and historical gravitas to “Jasper, Texas.”

Even in his later years, Gossett Jr. continued to enthrall audiences with roles in “Watchmen,” “The Cuban,” and “Kingdom Business.” He is set to star in four films that will be released post-humously.

How many awards did he get?

In total, four. Including the two already mentioned, Gossett Jr. also won two Golden Globes, one for “An Officer and a Gentleman” and another for “The Josephine Baker Story.”