Unsung Hollywood Season 2 Episode 7 Richard Roundtree

Richard Roundtree is an American actor renowned for his powerful and charismatic performances. In the Unsung Hollywood season 2 episode 7, his life and contributions to the movie industry are explored in depth. Richard is best known for his starring role in the cult classic film "Shaft," which revolutionized the Hollywood movie industry and created a new genre of African-American cinema. He played the title character, John Shaft, a private detective who takes on the Big Apple's underworld.

The episode is a comprehensive biographical sketch of Richard, from his early days as a social worker to his rise to superstardom. He started his acting career in the 1960s, appearing in small roles in TV shows and films. However, it was his iconic portrayal of Shaft that made him a household name. The documentary delves into the making of the film, the challenges faced by the cast and crew, and the impact it had on audiences.

Richard's journey to becoming an actor was not a conventional one. He was born in New Rochelle, New York, to parents who were both teachers. He studied education at Southern Illinois University and later worked as a social worker in the Bronx. It was during his time as a social worker that he got discovered by a talent scout while walking on the streets of New York. The scout was impressed by his striking looks and recommended him for a modeling job that launched his career.

From there, Richard went on to take acting classes at the Actor's Studio in New York, where he honed his skills and landed his first TV role in the soap opera "As the World Turns." He continued to work in TV shows and small films before landing his big break in "Shaft." The documentary delves into his personal life and family struggles, including his battle with breast cancer, a disease that is usually associated with women.

The episode features interviews with Richard, his family, friends, and colleagues who worked with him in the movie industry. There are also interviews with fans of the actor who admire his work and the impact he had on black cinema. The interviews give viewers an insight into his personality, his work ethic, and the struggles he faced as a black man in Hollywood.

The documentary also covers Richard's work outside of Shaft, including his roles in the '70s cop show "Dan August" and the science fiction film "Battle for the Planet of the Apes." It looks at his work in blaxploitation films, a genre of movies that emerged in the '70s that celebrated black culture and featured black heroes. The episode examines how Richard's presence in these films helped to challenge stereotypes and create positive representation for black people in mainstream media.

In summary, the Unsung Hollywood season 2 episode 7 is a comprehensive and insightful look into the life and career of Richard Roundtree. It celebrates his contributions to cinema and highlights the challenges he faced as a black actor in a predominantly white industry. The documentary provides a glimpse into the man behind the icon, and viewers get to see Richard's warmth, humor, and resilience in the face of adversity. It is a must-watch for anyone who is a fan of Richard Roundtree, black cinema, or the movie industry in general.