Iconic Actor Singer and Activist Harry Belafonte Passes Away

Today marks the passing of one of the world’s most beloved entertainers and advocates for civil rights Iconic Actor Singer and Activist Harry Belafonte Passes Away. Harry Belafonte, whose career spanned six decades and included multiple awards, has left an indelible mark on our collective hearts.  The actor, singer, civil rights activist who passed away Tuesday, April 25, 2023, of congestive heart failure at his home on the Upper West Side of Manhattan was 96.

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Born in Harlem in 1927, Belafonte began his career as a singer and actor. He quickly rose to fame with his signature calypso music and performances in films like Carmen Jones (1954) and Island in The Sun (1957).  He was awarded three Grammy Awards for albums such as Calypso (1956), Belafonte Sings the Blues (1959) and An Evening with Belafonte/Makeba (1965).

Belafonte Advocates for Civil Rights

Belafonte was also a passionate advocate for civil rights. In 1957 he joined Martin Luther King Jr.’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference. He used his fame to promote social justice causes, including boycotting Apartheid-era South Africa. In 1968 he established the non-profit organization “Harry Belafonte 1159 Foundation” to help New York City’s homeless population.

Belafonte received numerous honors during his lifetime including a Kennedy Center Honors award in 1989, the National Medal of Arts in 1994, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Screen Actors Guild in 2000. He was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Carmen Jones (1954).

Belafonte was truly an icon whose impact will be felt long after his passing. His daughter Adrienne said it best: “My father’s life was one of service—to his family and country first but also to those around the world who were less fortunate or facing injustice.”  We thank him for all that he has done throughout his incredible life.

CEO Joseph Collins, Jr says, “Harry Belafonte was a true icon and someone to look up to. When I look at the state of the nation, I believe America is a better place because of Belafonte’s contributions. He will truly be missed.”

The Punch TV Studios family would like to pay their respects to the family and loved ones of Mr. Belafonte and send their condolences.

Iconic Actor Singer and Activist Harry Belafonte Passes Away