Demise Of Harry Belafonte: Industry Calls Him 'Trailblazer and Hero'

A multitude of industry professionals ranging from actors and musicians to activists and politicians took to social media to express their admiration and love for the departed revolutionary vocalist, activist, and actor Harry Belafonte who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 96 in Manhattan.

On Tuesday, following the announcement of the death of Harry Belafonte at the age of 96, various entertainers, artists, thinkers, activists, and humanitarians took to social media to pay homage to the talented Jamaican-American, including Oprah, Spike Lee, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Maria Shriver, and Questlove.

At his Upper West Side residence in Manhattan, the singer and actor passed away on Tuesday from congestive heart failure. The Calypso singer had a successful career that saw him record over 30 albums, win the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and become a rare non-white leading man and sex icon in Hollywood. He also received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Belafonte was not just an entertainer but also an influential civil rights activist who championed for humanitarian causes. In 1963, when Martin Luther King Jr. gave his renowned I Have a Dream address during the Freedom March on Washington, he was instrumental in organising the celebrity involvement. Belafonte took part in the legendary Selma to Montgomery march in Alabama. Throughout his career, he used his fame to draw attention to social issues ranging from HIV/AIDS to poverty.

Demise Of Harry Belafonte

Oprah Winfrey took to Instagram to acknowledge the passing of Harry Belafonte, referring to him as a Trailblazer and Hero. She thanked him for his contributions in music, artistry, activism, and his fight for civil rights and justice. Oprah also paid tribute to his bravery, especially during the time when he risked his life to support the cause. She concluded by expressing gratitude for the blessing of his presence on the planet.

On Tuesday, President Joe Biden acknowledged the contribution of Belafonte by referring to his legacy. The U.S. leader, through a statement released by the White House, described the singer, activist, and actor as an innovative American who skillfully utilized his talent, popularity, and influence to assist in the improvement of the United States' core values.

Renowned filmmaker Ava DuVernay decided to share a significant quote from Belafonte in an Instagram post acknowledging his passing on Tuesday, referring to him as an "ancestor".

Colin Kaepernick expressed gratitude towards "Mr. B" on social media for not only providing mentorship and guidance, but for a lifelong dedication towards activism, advocating for a better future for everyone. Although he will be missed by many, his memory and impact endure.

Belafonte was commemorated as a "Jamaican American hero" by Sheryl Lee Ralph, a well-known actor and singer from Abbott Elementary.

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