Louis Gossett Jr. health problems explored as first Black man to win a Best Supporting Actor Oscar dies aged 87

On March 29, 2024, the beloved star of “Dog Jack,”Louis Gossett Jr., passed away at the age of 87. The official cause of his unexpected death has not been announced.

The Associated Press received confirmation of Gossett Jr.’s passing from his nephew, who revealed that the actor was in Santa Monica, California, at the time of his death. The family of Louis also released a statement, which included the following excerpt:

“We would like to thank you everyone for their condolences at this time. Please respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.”

Famous individuals and groups utilized social media platforms to convey their sorrow. The official Rickey Smiley for Real page also honored Gossett Jr. with a photo, prompting an outpouring of responses from his admirers in the comments section, hailing him as one of the most talented actors.

Louis Gossett Jr.’s Health Struggles While Pursuing His Career

During the 1950s and 1960s, Louis Gossett Jr. made his debut and quickly gained a large fanbase due to his impeccable performances. He received acclaim for his work on Broadway in his early years and ultimately went on to win an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1983.

During his career, Gossett Jr. encountered various health obstacles, such as struggling with addiction to alcohol and cocaine.

The link to the video is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyQdmTRGPUg.

In 2010, he released a statement stating that he had begun receiving treatment and that the cancer was in its early stages. He referred to the diagnosis as a challenge and added:

“I expect this to be no different. I want to influence them to seek, as I have, the fine medical care and early detection now available.”

Furthermore, Louis Gossett Jr. expressed the motive behind disclosing his diagnosis, stating that he wanted to inspire other African-American cancer patients. He emphasized the importance of early detection and treatment, especially within the African-American community.

The link to the video is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BpKsbxNKh-4.

In 2020, he was diagnosed with Covid-19 and required hospitalization in Georgia. After a few days, he was discharged and sources claimed that this was due to Louis feeling uneasy being surrounded by other patients with the same health issue.

Louis Gossett Jr.’s Stage Career

Louis Gossett Jr. grew up in Brooklyn, where he completed his primary education at Abraham Lincoln High School. His father, a porter, and his mother, a nurse, raised him. After high school, he attended New York University and discovered a passion for acting.

For many years, he played a significant role on Broadway and was cast in notable productions like A Raisin in the Sun. He also took on significant characters on television, such as Walter ‘Walt’ Shepherd in the NBC series, The Powers of Matthew Star. Additionally, he lent his voice to Commander Clash in Captain Planet and the Planeteers.

The link to the video is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4ethzmceRM.

Despite appearing in numerous films, Louis is best known for his role as Brigadier General Charles ‘Chappy’ Sinclair in the Iron Eagle trilogy. His most recent appearance was in the period drama The Color Purple, and he also had four upcoming films in his lineup.

Surviving Gossett Jr. are his two children, Satie and Sharron.