Breaking: Legendary 'Shaft' Star Richard Roundtree's Tragic Passing Sends Shockwaves Through Hollywood

Richard Roundtree, the stage and screen actor best known for his performance as a tough-talking private eye in 1971s "Shaft," has died, according to multiple reports.

He was 81.

Roundtrees manager, Patrick McMinn, confirmed the news of his passing in a statement to Variety. McMinn revealed that the actor succumbed to pancreatic cancer on Tuesday afternoon following a brief struggle with the disease. McMinn emphasized that Roundtrees' contributions and accomplishments marked a significant shift for African American leading men in the film industry, underscoring the immense impact he had on the field.

The CNN has contacted the actor's representatives for a comment.

Roundtree holds the unique position of being one of a few actors who achieved top billing right from his very first appearance on screen. Prior to that, he was predominantly a theater actor. His leading role in the 1971 Blaxploitation film "Shaft" thrust him into the cultural spotlight, giving rise to a series of sequels, a television show, and a 2019 reboot featuring Samuel L. Jackson.

The actor had a successful career that lasted for 50 years, accumulating over 150 screen credits. Some notable works on television include "Roots," "Desperate Housewives," and "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." Roundtree also appeared in films such as "Se7en," "Speed Racer," and "Brick."

Actress Gabrielle Union paid tribute to Roundtree on X, formerly known as Twitter, by sharing images of them together during their time on the TV series "Being Mary Jane."

Jackson, who starred alongside Roundtree in the revitalized version of "Shaft," paid homage to the deceased actor in an Instagram tribute on Tuesday evening, dubbing him "The Quintessential, The Unparalleled Master!!"

"His departure not only leaves a profound void in my heart, but I'm certain it does for many of you as well," Jackson elaborated. "Brother, I hold you dear, envisioning you strolling along the center of Main Street in paradise with Issacs leading the symphony, your garments gracefully billowing in the wind!! Seraphs whispering."