The cause of death of famous actor Louis Gossett Jr. has reportedly been confirmed as being chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
A death certificate confirmed COPD to be the main reason for Gossett Jr.’s death, and also listed heart failure and atrial fibrillation as being contributing factors, according to TMZ. The document reportedly noted that the famous actor was battling COPD for several years before his death. The star, best known for his roles in “An Officer and a Gentleman” and “Roots,” died March 29 at the age of 87.
Louis Gossett Jr. speaks onstage at the screening of “Carmen Jones” during the 2023 TCM Classic Film Festival on April 15, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. Photo by Jerod Harris/Getty Images for TCM
Special Guest Louis Gossett Jr. speaks onstage at the screening of ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ at the 2019 TCM 10th Annual Classic Film Festival on April 13, 2019 in Hollywood, California. Photo by Charley Gallay/Getty Images for TCM
The death certificate also said the famous actor’s body was to undergo cremation, according to TMZ.
Gossett Jr.’s long-standing career in the world of entertainment included a number of accolades. His talent was honored when he was named as the first Black man to win the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role as Gunnery Sergeant Emil Foley in “An Officer and a Gentleman.” The highly acclaimed star also had a number of stage roles as part of his portfolio. Other notable credits included parts in “Watchmen,” “Boardwalk Empire,” the ‘Iron Eagle’ film series, “Enemy Mine,” “The Deep” and the adaptation of the Broadway musical “The Color Purple.” He also appeared in a series of action films, including “The Punisher.”
Actor Louis Gossett, Jr. attends Premiere Of CBS Television Studios & Amblin Television’s “Extant” at California Science Center on June 16, 2014 in Los Angeles, California. Photo by Mark Davis/Getty Images
Actor Louis Gossett Jr. onstage at the Center Theatre Group 50th Anniversary Celebration at Ahmanson Theatre on May 20, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. Photo by Rich Polk/Getty Images for Center Theater Group
Gossett Jr. had a true passion for the arts, and wholeheartedly enjoyed his time working in the entertainment industry. He continued to evolve and take on roles until the very end. (RELATED: Dickey Betts, Founder And Lead Guitarist Of Allman Brothers Band, Dead At Age 80)
Actor Louis Gossett Jr. attends the 47th NAACP Image Awards presented by TV One at Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 5, 2016 in Pasadena, California. Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images
He is survived by his natural son, Satie, and his adopted son, Sharron, who joined the family when Gossett Jr. saw him aired in a show focused on at-risk youths, according to TMZ.