Andre Braugher, Acclaimed Actor from ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and ‘Homicide,’ Passes Away at Age 61

Remembering Andre Braugher: Emmy Award-Winning Actor

Introduction

Andre Braugher, a highly acclaimed and Emmy Award-winning actor, passed away at the age of 61. Known for his remarkable performances in shows like “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Homicide: Life on the Street,” Braugher will be remembered as a talented artist who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.

An Iconic Career

During the 1990s, Braugher captivated audiences with his portrayal of Frank Pembleton, a Baltimore homicide detective, in the police procedural series “Homicide.” This breakout role earned him an Emmy Award in 1998^[1]. Later, on the hit comedy series “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” Braugher delivered a sensitive and noteworthy performance as Captain Ray Holt, earning critical acclaim and multiple award nominations^[2].

A Journey from Chicago to Stardom

Braugher’s journey began in Chicago’s West Side, where he grew up in challenging circumstances. Despite the odds, he pursued his dreams and attended St. Ignatius College Prep, a prestigious Jesuit Catholic high school^[3]. Despite his father’s wishes for him to become an engineer, Braugher chose to pursue acting and went on to study at Stanford University and the Juilliard School, honing his skills and preparing for a remarkable career in the performing arts^[4].

Challenging Stereotypes

Braugher’s passion for acting faced skepticism, with his father questioning the viability of a career for Black actors. However, Braugher proved his father wrong by becoming a prominent figure in the industry^[5].

A Diverse Body of Work

Braugher’s talent extended beyond television. He showcased his acting prowess in films such as the Oscar-winning “Glory,” where he starred alongside renowned actors like Matthew Broderick, Morgan Freeman, and Denzel Washington^[6]. In his final roles, Braugher left a lasting impression in the drama “She Said,” portraying Dean Baquet, the executive editor of The New York Times, during Harvey Weinstein’s sexual abuse scandal^[7].

A Passion for Shakespeare

Aside from his on-screen work, Braugher was an avid Shakespeare enthusiast, performing in productions at the New York Shakespeare Festival and other esteemed venues. In an interview, he shared his excitement about saving one of Shakespeare’s plays, “Pericles, Prince of Tyre,” for a special later performance^[8].

A Legacy of Unforgettable Characters

Braugher’s talent shone through in his diverse roles, whether it was portraying an unorthodox physician on “Gideon’s Crossing” or a car salesman on “Men of a Certain Age.” His ability to bring depth and authenticity to each character solidified his status as one of the industry’s most respected actors^[9].

Remembering Andre Braugher

Andre Braugher is survived by his wife, actress Ami Brabson, his sons Michael, Isaiah, and John Wesley, his brother Charles Jennings, and his mother. His contributions to the world of acting will forever be cherished, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of performers^[10].

Rebecca Carballo contributed reporting.

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Read More of this Story at www.nytimes.com – 2023-12-13 03:38:03