The entertainment world lost a legend today with acclaimed actor André Braugher passing at age 61. Over a storied 35-year career, Braugher delivered unforgettable performances in both TV and cinema that earned him two Emmy awards and the admiration of audiences and costars alike.
Braugher first burst onto the scene in 1989 with an unforgettable performance alongside Denzel Washington and Matthew Broderick in Glory. He soon transitioned to television, starring in a series of Kojak series as Detective Winston Blake alongside Telly Savalas before landing his career-defining role on the gritty NBC police drama Homicide: Life on the Street.
As Detective Frank Pembleton, Braugher captivated viewers with his fierce tenacity, unwavering moral code, and unforgettable interrogation scenes. His masterful portrayal earned him his first Emmy award in 1998 and cemented his reputation as one of the finest actors of his generation.
Though Homicide ended in 1999, Braugher continued working steadily in film and television over the next two decades. He delivered praised dramatic performances in series like Gideon’s Crossing, Hack, and the Emmy-winning miniseries Thief. He also managed to be a part of one of the more bleak takes on Steven King’s books with his role in the horror movie The Mist in 2007.
Though initially known for his serious roles, his deft comedic chops with parts in shows like Last Resort and Brooklyn Nine-Nine helped build a whole new audience of fans. As the stern but caring Captain Raymond Holt on Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Braugher displayed incredible range, eliciting laughs with his deadpan one-liners one minute and conveying gravitas the next.
At the time of his passing, Braugher had recently begun production on the new Shonda Rhimes Netflix series The Residence. He was also slated to direct his first feature film, an adaptation of Thieves’ Paradise. Sadly, neither project will see the gifted Braugher back in front of the camera.
André Braugher is survived by his wife of over 30 years, Ami Brabson, and their three sons. Though his monumental skill and warm spirit can never be replaced, he leaves behind an incredible body of work that will continue inspiring audiences for generations to come. He will be dearly missed.
