Celebrity

Louis Gossett Jr the 1st Black Man To Win Supporting Actor Oscar, Dies At 87

Published

8 months ago

2024-03-30

Kiara Grace

Los Angeles — Louis Gossett Jr., the first Black man to win an Oscar for supporting actor and an Emmy for his role in the pioneering television miniseries “Roots,” died. He was 87.

Neal L. Gossett, the actor’s first cousin, told The Associated Press that he died in Santa Monica, California. According to a family statement, Gossett died on Friday morning. No cause of death was revealed.

Gossett’s cousin remembers a man who walked with Nelson Mandela, a fantastic joke teller and a family member who faced and combated racism with dignity and humor.

Louis Gossett Jr., 1st Black Man To Win Supporting Actor Oscar, Dies At 87

“Forget the prizes, the flash and glamor, the Rolls-Royces, and the large villas in Malibu. “It’s about the humanity of the people he represented,” his cousin explained.

Louis Gossett always viewed his early career as a reverse Cinderella narrative, with success finding him at a young age and propelling him ahead to his Academy Award for “An Officer and A Gentleman.”

Gossett made his television debut as Fiddler in the historic 1977 miniseries “Roots,” which exposed slavery’s miseries. The large cast includes Ben Vereen, LeVar Burton, and John Amos.

In 1983, Gossett became the third Black actor to receive an Oscar nomination in the supporting actor category. He won for portraying the intimidating Marine drill instructor in “An Officer and a Gentleman,” with Richard Gere and Debra Winger. He also received a Golden Globe for the same role.

“More than anything, it was a huge affirmation of my position as a Black actor,” he said in his 2010 biography, “An Actor and a Gentleman.”

He received his first acting credit in his Brooklyn high school’s production of “You Can’t Take It with You” while recovering from an injury that kept him off the basketball team.

“I was hooked—and so was my audience,” he writes in his memoir.

His English teacher encouraged him to go to Manhattan to audition for “Take a Giant Step.” He got the part and made his Broadway debut in 1953 at sixteen.

“I knew too little to be nervous,” Gossett wrote. “In retrospect, I should have been scared to death as I walked onto that stage, but I wasn’t.”

Gossett went to New York University on a basketball and acting scholarship. He quickly began performing and singing on television shows presented by David Susskind, Ed Sullivan, Red Buttons, Merv Griffin, Jack Paar, and Steve Allen.

Gossett made friends with James Dean while studying acting with Steve McQueen, Martin Landau, and Marilyn Monroe at a branch of the Actors Studio run by Frank Silvera.

Gossett garnered critical praise in 1959 for his performance in the Broadway production of “A Raisin in the Sun” alongside Sidney Poitier, Ruby Dee, and Diana Sands.

He became a Broadway star, succeeding Billy Daniels in “Golden Boy” alongside Sammy Davis Jr. in 1964.

In 1961, Gossett made his first trip to Hollywood to work on the film adaptation of “A Raisin in the Sun.” He had negative memories of the trip, including staying in a cockroach-infested motel that was one of the only places that allowed Black people.

In 1968, he returned to Hollywood to play a prominent role in “Companions in Nightmare,” NBC’s first made-for-television film, alongside Melvyn Douglas, Anne Baxter, and Patrick O’Neal.

This time, Gossett was lodged at the Beverly Hills Hotel, and Universal Studios had hired him a convertible. A Los Angeles County sheriff’s officer stopped him after he picked up the car and told him to turn off the radio and raise the roof before letting him go.

Within minutes, he was stopped by eight sheriff’s police, who forced him to lean against the car and open the trunk while they called the auto rental business before releasing him.

“Though I understood that I had no choice but to put up with this abuse, it was a terrible way to be treated, a humiliating way to feel,” Gossett wrote in his account of the experience. “I realized this was happening because I was Black and had been showing off with a fancy car — which, in their view, I had no right to be driving.”

After dinner at the hotel, he went for a walk and was stopped a block away by a police officer, who informed him that he had violated a rule barring walking around residential Beverly Hills after 9 p.m. Two other cops came, and Gossett stated that he had been shackled to a tree and in handcuffs for three hours. He was eventually set free when the original police car returned.

“Now I had come face-to-face with racism, and it was an ugly sight,” he said. “But it was not going to destroy me.”

Louis Gossett Jr., 1st Black Man To Win Supporting Actor Oscar, Dies At 87

Gossett claimed that while driving his restored 1986 Rolls-Royce Corniche II on the Pacific Coast Highway in the late 1990s, police stopped him. The police informed him he resembled someone they were looking for, but he recognized Gossett and departed.

He formed the Eracism Foundation to assist in creating a world free of racism.

Gossett made several guest appearances on shows such as “Bonanza,” “The Rockford Files,” “The Mod Squad,” “McCloud,” and a noteworthy performance with Richard Pryor on “The Partridge Family.”

Gossett was partying with Mamas and Papas members in August 1969 when they were invited to actor Sharon Tate’s house. He went home first to shower and change clothes. As he was about to depart, he saw a news flash on TV regarding Tate’s murder. That night, Charles Manson’s associates murdered her and several others.

“There had to be a reason for my escaping this bullet,” he stated in an email.

Louis Cameron Gossett was born on May 27, 1936, in Brooklyn’s Coney Island neighborhood to parents Louis Sr., a porter, and Hellen, a nurse. He eventually added Jr. to his name in honor of his father.

“The Oscar gave me the ability to choose good roles in films like ‘Enemy Mine,’ ‘Sadat,’ and ‘Iron Eagle,'” Gossett remarked in Dave Karger’s 2024 book “50 Oscar Nights.”

He claimed his statue was in storage.

“I’m going to donate it to a library so I don’t have to keep an eye on it,” he stated in the book. “I need to be free of it.”

Gossett starred in television films such as “The Story of Satchel Paige,” “Backstairs at the White House,” “The Josephine Baker Story,” for which he won another Golden Globe, and “Roots Revisited.”

However, he stated that winning an Oscar did not change the reality that all his parts were supporting.

Louis Gossett Jr., 1st Black Man To Win Supporting Actor Oscar, Dies At 87

He plays an unyielding patriarch in the 2023 version of “The Color Purple.”

After winning the Oscar, Gossett struggled with alcohol and cocaine addiction for several years. He went to rehab and was diagnosed with toxic mold illness, which he attributed to his Malibu home.

Gossett disclosed in 2010 that he had prostate cancer, which he said was detected early. In 2020, he was hospitalized for COVID-19.

He also left behind two sons: Satie, a producer-director from his second marriage, and Sharron, a chef whom he adopted after seeing the 7-year-old in a TV segment on kids in perilous situations. His first cousin is actor Robert Gossett.

Gossett’s first marriage to Hattie Glascoe was annulled. His second marriage, to Christina Mangosing, ended in divorce in 1975, as did his third, to actor Cyndi James-Reese, in 1992.

SOURCE – (AP)

Kiara Grace

Kiara Grace is a staff writer at VORNews, a reputable online publication. Her writing focuses on technology trends, particularly in the realm of consumer electronics and software. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for breaking down complex topics.

Kiara delivers insightful analyses that resonate with tech enthusiasts and casual readers alike. Her articles strike a balance between in-depth coverage and accessibility, making them a go-to resource for anyone seeking to stay informed about the latest innovations shaping our digital world.

Celebrity

Gypsy Rose Talks Parenting Plans After Announcing Pregnancy

Published

1 day ago

2024-12-05

Geoff Brown

Gypsy Rose earlier told Us Weekly that she hoped to become a mother when the time was right.

Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her boyfriend, Ken Urker, are preparing for the birth of their first child. Gipsy Rose stated, “We’re going to accomplish this together. Blanchard, who revealed her pregnancy on YouTube this week.

“He’s going to have to stay at my parents’ house for a couple of days and vice versa,” Blanchard said of Urker. “But I can’t move in with him or buy a house until I come off parole. So we’ll have to work around the schedule.”

Blanchard was released from prison on parole in December 2023 — she was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the murder of her mother, Claudine “Dee Dee” Blanchard, who allegedly mistreated her throughout her childhood — and has been living in her father, Rod’s and stepmother Kristy’s home in Louisiana.

Gypsy Rose’s parole expires in 11 months, after which she and Urker intend to move into their new home.

Gypsy Rose is due in January 2025, which means she and Urker will have to commute between their parent’s homes for the first six months of their baby’s life.

Gypsy Rose takes Parenting Seriously.

Until then, Gypsy Gipsy is focussing on her own and her baby’s health. (She discovered the sex through a blood test but has yet to share the information publicly.)

“I’m making sure I’m taking my prenatal vitamins, and with the mood swings and the symptoms, I just haven’t even had any extra time to even communicate with anyone,” Gypsy told reporters.

“I’ve been quite busy. It was equally difficult to maintain silence about this. I wanted to reveal it on my terms and in a specific manner, but keeping this secret for so long was concerning.

I didn’t want it leaked. It would have taken away the excitement of disclosing it to my friends, family, and, eventually, the public.”

She continued, “I believe every parent wonders if they are ready. I am currently in therapy for my sanity and mental well-being, and I have ticked all of the boxes to ensure that I am stable. All I can say is that I have a solid support system, and Ken and I are doing quite well.”

Gypsy Rose earlier told Us Weekly that she hoped to become a mother when the time was right.

“I think that I’m going to be a good mother,” she told Us exclusively in May. “I think Ken would be a wonderful father, and so we’ll see what the future holds for us.”

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Geoff Brown

Geoff Thomas is a seasoned staff writer at VORNews, a reputable online publication. With his sharp writing skills and deep understanding of SEO, he consistently delivers high-quality, engaging content that resonates with readers. Thomas’ articles are well-researched, informative, and written in a clear, concise style that keeps audiences hooked. His ability to craft compelling narratives while seamlessly incorporating relevant keywords has made him a valuable asset to the VORNews team.

Celebrity

Young Sheldon Cast: Where Are They Now?

Published

2 days ago

2024-12-04

Geoff Brown

“Young Sheldon,” the beloved spin-off of “The Big Bang Theory,” wrapped up its run in 2024, leaving fans curious about what its talented cast is up to now. This show chronicled Sheldon Cooper’s quirky childhood and introduced us to a cast of memorable characters portrayed by a talented ensemble. Let’s dive into what the “Young Sheldon” cast is doing today.

Iain Armitage (Sheldon Cooper)

Iain Armitage brought young Sheldon Cooper to life with incredible charm and precision. Starting in the role at nine years old, Armitage quickly became a household name. Now, at 16 years old, Iain continues to thrive. Recently, he’s explored theatre, attending performances like Jim Parsons’ play and sharing the stage with other talented actors.

His social media presence reveals his passion for acting and hobbies like music and nature. With a bright future ahead, fans eagerly await his next project.

Zoe Perry (Mary Cooper)

Zoe Perry, daughter of actor Laurie Metcalf (who played Mary Cooper in “The Big Bang Theory”), portrayed Sheldon’s devout and caring mother. Perry is exploring other acting opportunities after playing Mary Cooper for seven seasons.

While she hasn’t announced her next major role yet, Perry remains active in Hollywood. Her commanding performances suggest she’ll continue to book compelling roles that showcase her talent.

Lance Barber (George Cooper Sr.)

Lance Barber’s depiction of George Cooper Sr. was humorous and emotional, providing depth to Sheldon’s father’s complex character. Since the series finale, Barber has spent time with his family while scouting for new roles. Known for his versatility, fans expect him to appear in other TV dramas or comedies soon.

Raegan Revord (Missy Cooper)

Raegan Revord stole hearts as Missy Cooper, Sheldon’s spunky twin sister. Now 16 years old, she continues to make waves. Revord has hinted at future roles in TV and film, picking dynamic, fun characters.

Offscreen, she’s focused on her education and personal growth, balancing her teenage life with her acting career. Her charismatic performances make her a young actress to watch.

Montana Jordan (Georgie Cooper)

Montana Jordan matures alongside his character, Georgie, evolving from a rebellious teen to a young man with responsibilities. Post “Young Sheldon,” Montana aims for more significant roles in film and television. His Southern charm and comedic timing make him an exceptional talent in the entertainment industry.

He’s also active on social media, sharing snippets from his personal life and career updates.

Annie Potts (Meemaw)

Annie Potts brought warmth and humour to the role of Meemaw, Sheldon’s fiery grandmother. Potts, already an accomplished actress before “Young Sheldon,” continues to act in various projects. Known for her roles in classics like “Ghostbusters” and “Designing Women,” fans can’t get enough.

Outside acting, she often supports charities and engages in community work.

Emily Osment (Mandy McAllister)

Joining the show as Mandy, Emily Osment brought a fresh dynamic to the show’s final season. Many know her from “Hannah Montana” and “The Kominsky Method.” Since “Young Sheldon,” Osment has been busy. She’s reportedly filming upcoming projects and continues to engage with fans on social media, giving updates on her life and musings.

Matt Hobby (Pastor Jeff)

Matt Hobby’s portrayal of Pastor Jeff added humour and awkward charm to “Young Sheldon.” Post-show, he’s appeared in guest roles in other TV comedies. Matt brings quirky, relatable humour to every project he touches, and fans enjoy spotting him in both leading and supporting roles.

Wyatt McClure (Billy Sparks).

Who could forget Billy Sparks, Sheldon’s neighbourhood “frenemy”? Wyatt McClure, who played Billy, continues to act and grow in his career. At a young age, he continued to be involved in acting while balancing school. Fans hope to see more of McClure as he matures in the industry.

Jim Parsons (Narrator and Executive Producer)

While not part of the on-screen cast, Jim Parsons played a pivotal role as the narrator and executive producer of “Young Sheldon.” His voice tied the spin-off to “The Big Bang Theory” while providing insights into Sheldon’s thoughts.

Parsons has stayed busy with various projects, both acting and producing. His performances in theatres and feature films remind fans why he’s a Hollywood favourite.

Conclusion

The “Young Sheldon” cast has grown tremendously since the show aired in 2017. From theatre ventures to exciting upcoming roles, each actor builds their career while cementing the show’s legacy. As fans, we can’t wait to see where their journeys take them next. Keep an eye on these talented stars—they’re just getting started!

Geoff Brown

Celebrity

Gregg Wallace Sidelined From Masterchef Over Sexual Misconduct

Published

1 week ago

2024-11-29

Geoff Brown

Gregg Wallace allegedly used sexualised language and ‘people were uncomfortable

Gregg Wallace, a familiar face on BBC MasterChef, has found himself in hot water over allegations of inappropriate sexual comments. The TV host has left the program under claims of improper behaviour spanning 17 years.

The debate started when several claims of Wallace making improper sexual remarks to colleagues arose. Reports state that the claims cover 17 years and involve 13 people working on different shows he has directed.

According to Masterchef’s production firm Banijay UK, Wallace is co-operatively investigating the situation.

The charges have rocked fans of BBC MasterChef, who are accustomed to Wallace’s direct and impassioned on-screen attitude. Some defend him, while others consider this as still another instance of entertainment industry responsibility.

Social media has been abuzz with the accusations against Wallace. Opinions are divided; some support the host by saying cancel culture has gone too far, while others contend that major accusations require a response.

Greg Wallace Thanks Fans

Wallace thanked his fans on social media while still claiming innocence. However, as public personalities are all too well known, words cannot frequently change public opinion in the court of public opinion.

Gregg Wallace has been a mainstay on BBC MasterChef for years, providing co-host John Torode with vitality and charm.

His departure left a clear void. Series buffs wonder how the show will change without him.

The BBC itself struggles as well. Allegations connected to one of its well-known actors provide a negative picture of the network, particularly because the entertainment business is increasingly scrutinized for how it manages charges of misbehaviour.

After learning of the claims, BBC News—editorially autonomous from the larger company—started investigating Wallace in the summer. We have heard claims spanning five programs from 2005 to 2022.

A few employees have had more favourable interactions with Wallace.

One former employee of Inside the Factory told us he frequently cracked “bad jokes,” but it never went beyond that.

One former MasterChef employee stated nothing during her stay there seemed alarming. Another said she understood why some people would have felt uneasy, but his remarks lacked malice.

The circumstances between Gregg Wallace and BBC MasterChef show how even the entertainment business struggles with claims of misbehaviour. Wallace’s future rests in flux, but the larger debate about public personalities and responsibility continues.

One thing is certain: the era of unaccountability in entertainment is over, and even long-standing performers like Gregg Wallace are not exempt. Fans of the program will have to wait to see how this narrative evolves.