Actor Yaphet Kotto, best known for his memorable roles in ‘Alien’ and ‘James Bond’ passed away on Sunday night at the age of 81.
As The New York Post reports:
Social-media salutes and tributes are being made to the late “Live and Let Die” star, whose death was first announced by his wife, Tessie Sinahon, Monday night.
“I’m saddened and still in shocked of the passing of my husband Yaphet of 24 years. He died last night around 10:30 pm Philippine time,” Sinahon shared on Facebook, captioning a picture of the Emmy-nominated actor smiling…
Yaphet Kotto. My Mom’s favorite. He’s one of those actors who deserved more than the parts he got. But he took those parts and made them wonderful all the same. A star. Rest well, sir. pic.twitter.com/BqeuVc7DSB
— Ava DuVernay (@ava) March 16, 2021
A native of Harlem, Kotto was born on Nov. 15, 1939, a descendant of Cameroonian royalty on his father’s side. But his early life was anything but luxurious. He was raised by his maternal grandparents in the Bronx after his parents split up and his mother joined the Army.
You were so memorable in every role you did. Your presence and talent were undeniable and magnetic…whether you were the villain or the hero. Rest well #YaphetKotto. God bless your wife and family. You will be missed.https://t.co/YQ7x5LM8ym
— Viola Davis (@violadavis) March 16, 2021
Kotto’s first feature film role in “Nothing But a Man,” in 1964 at 23, would be the catalyst of an illustrious career complete with credits in Hollywood blockbusters like Ridley Scott’s “Alien,” Paul Schrader’s “Blue Collar” with Richard Pryor and “The Running Man” opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Kotto is survived by his six children, and his wife.
wpDiscuz
God bless a good man! !Let’s pray for a good man he will be forever loved 😇
Seen him in movies, but didn’t know his name. Thanks for the entertainment! REST IN PEACE!
He was also the Commander in TV series, Homicide, Life on the Street
May God rest his soul. He was a really great actor, just the best. Thanks for the memories Yaphet.
Rest peacefully, Sir. Deepest heart-sent condolences to family, loved ones, friends, colleagues and fans.
Condolences to the Family, Mr.Koto RIP and thank you for entertaining the World during your Life here on Earth!
Unfortunately, he was one of those good actors that you never got to know well. He is missed. GGD
Not one of the big name actors at the top of the credits list, but one of the supporting cast who make the movies so enjoyable. Definitely one of the those who gave films depth and character. Will be missed !
‘I loved Yaphet as FBI ‘Agent Mosely ‘ in ‘Midnight Run’ One of my favorite movies ..and it had a fabulous cast. I call it the ‘male bonding movie’ deNiro, Charles Grodin, Yaphet and Many others. including its own dumb and dumber. A chase comedy of many dimensions.