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Richard Roundtree, a Hollywood icon who played John Shaft in the 1971 introduction to the "Shaft" film franchise, has died after a battle with cancer at age 81.

Richard Roundtree, the iconic actor known for his role as Detective John Shaft in the 1970s film "Shaft," has passed away at the age of 81 after battling pancreatic cancer. Roundtree's manager, Patrick McMinn, praised his impact on the representation of African American leading men in the entertainment industry. Roundtree's co-star, Gabrielle Union, remembered him as "the coolest man in the room" and expressed her condolences. Despite initially keeping his illness private, Roundtree later became an advocate for raising awareness about cancer.

Roundtree died at his home in Los Angeles of pancreatic cancer, the Reporter said, citing his manager, Patrick McMinn. Roundtree's representatives did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for confirmation.

Richard Roundtree, the actor best known for his performance in 'Shaft,' has died.He was 81.Roundtree's manager confirmed the news in a statement to Variety. Pat

American actor Richard Roundtree, heralded as "the first Black action hero" for his starring role in the iconic 1971 hit "Shaft," died Tuesday at 81, US media reported.Either way, the genre was critical to pushing Hollywood to finally cast Black Americans in starring roles.