American actor Louis Gosset Jr, known for his supporting role in the Oscar-winning movie “An Officer and a Gentleman” (1982), dies at 87.

The Associated Press reported that Gossett’s first cousin Neal L. Gossett confirmed the death of the actor, saying he died in Santa Monica, California. The cause of the death hasn’t been confirmed.

Upon winning the 1983 Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, Gozett made history as the first black performer to achieve such recognition in that category. He joined Hattie McDaniel and Sidney Poitier as black actors to secure an Academy Award.

Gossett, born on May 27, 1936, distinguished himself as a versatile American actor, originating from Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York City. 

He stepped onto the stage for the first time at 17, and shortly after, his talent shone through as he secured a role in the Broadway production Take a Giant Step. 

Gossett’s career flourished as he graced the stage in a series of plays, including A Raisin in the Sun (1959), The Blacks (1961), Tambourines to Glory (1963), and The Zulu and the Zayda (1965). 

In 1977, he captivated audiences with his portrayal in the renowned miniseries Roots, garnering him the prestigious Outstanding Lead Actor for a Single Appearance in a Drama or Comedy Series at the Emmy Awards.