Noted singer-actor Harry Belafonte died at his home in Manhattan on Tuesday at the age of 96. His spokesperson Ken Sunshine mentioned he died of congestive heart failure and his wife Pamela was by his side.
Harry Belanfonte was one of the first Black performers to gain wide recognition on film and to sell a million records as a singer. ‘Banana Boat Song (Day-O)’ is one of his signature hits.
Belafonte will also be remembered for his civil rights work in the 1960s and his anti-apartheid work in the 1980s.
Several celebrities have paid tribute to Belanfonte on social media. In an Instagram post, Oprah Winfrey shared her condolences and wrote, ‘Another “GREAT TREE” has fallen: Harry Belafonte, a Trailblazer and Hero to us all. Thank you for your music, your artistry, your activism, your fight for civil rights and justice—especially risking your life back in the day to get money to the movement. Your being here on Earth has Blessed us all.’
Actor Sheryl Lee Ralph shared a picture with Harry Belafonte and wrote, ‘We lost a true Jamaican American hero today. Harry Belafonte was so many things and a supportive mentor and role model to me. I thank him for the love and support he gave to me and my children over the years. My love and prayers to the Belafonte family. He will be deeply missed.’
Former US President Barack Obama is among others who have paid their tributes on social media.
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