Hollywood has lost one of its pioneers.
Earl Cameron, the Bermuda-born British actor who appeared in roles spanning from London pool to Start, died Friday, his family confirmed E! News. The star was 102 years old.
“Earl Cameron CBE passed away peacefully on July 3, 2020 at his home in Kenilworth, Warwickshire, surrounded by his wife and family,” a statement said. “His family has been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and respect they have received. He was a man who upheld his moral principles and was inspiring. His deep commitment to the Baha’i Faith and the unity of humanity informed all of his choices. As artist and actor, he refused to accept roles that degraded or stereotyped the character of people of color. He will be greatly missed. “
After years of theatrical work, Cameron rose to fame in his first film, The 1951. London pool, in which he played a leading role as a merchant sailor who falls in love with a white woman. According to The TelegraphIt was the “first major role for a black actor in a British film”.
“The first British film to show a mixed race relationship,” he said. The Guardian shrugging in 2017. “But it seemed natural to me. It felt like real life.”
