The television and film scene lost two great individuals today as the respective representatives announced the deaths of Suzzanne Douglas and Rober Downey, Sr.
Douglas, who was the lead actress in “The Parent ‘Hood,” was 64 years old. But, she also starred in other hit movies including “Whitney,” “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” “School of Rock,” and “The Inkwell.”
Her publicist Penny Vizcarra stated the following on Douglas’ passing:
“The industry has lost a truly talented artist with the passing of Suzzanne Douglas. She touched everyone who knew her and was lovely in every sense of the word. The family appreciates your support and asks for their privacy during this difficult time.”
At this time, the cause of death has not been disclosed.
Multiple stars expressed their condolences after hearing the news about Douglas.
Suzzanne Douglas was a quiet, elegant force as we made WHEN THEY SEE US. A gentlewoman. A gem of a lady. A confident, caring actor who breathed life into the words and made them shimmer. I’m grateful that our paths in this life crossed. May she journey on in peace and love. pic.twitter.com/1ZhaucGEiK
— Ava DuVernay (@ava) July 7, 2021
I’m at such a loss. I was a Philly kid straight off the Greyhound bus who took a lot of things 4 granted. Watching you work & move gracefully from scene to scene…made me love & respect this business. Our talks…we had lots of them. You taught me so much. I will never 4get you? pic.twitter.com/5rLZCIOHuj
— Reagan Gomez (@ReaganGomez) July 7, 2021
Robert Downey Sr.
In other news, Hollywood also lost Robert Downey Sr. — the father of well-known actor Robert Downey Jr. Downey Sr. has suffered from Parkison’s for over five years.
As for the older Downey, he was 85 when he passed and was a countercultural filmmaker and actor. Downey made a name for himself with the films “Putney Swope” and Greaser’s Palace”. His work didn’t stop there though, as he also acted in “To Live and Die in L.A” and “Boogie Nights”.
The last film he directed was the documentary “Rittenhouse Square” in 2005.
Downey Jr. shared the passing of his father through a picture of his father on Instagram with a touching caption.
“RIP Bob D. Sr. 1936-2021…Last night, dad passed peacefully in his sleep after years of enduring the ravages of Parkinson’s ..he was a true maverick filmmaker, and remained remarkably optimistic throughout..According to my stepmoms calculations, they were happily married for just over 2000 years. Rosemary Rogers-Downey, you are a saint, and our thoughts and prayers are with you.”
