By HBCU News Staff
On a night designed to celebrate the magic of film, the 97th Academy Awards took a heartfelt pause to honor those we’ve lost over the past year. Leading that moment was none other than Morgan Freeman, who opened the Oscars’ In Memoriam segment with moving words dedicated to his dear friend, the legendary Gene Hackman. But as Freeman’s powerful voice echoed through the room, it set the stage for a deeper reflection—a recognition of the Black artists whose talents and legacies shaped not just Hollywood, but our culture at large.
Among those honored were names that hold special meaning in our community, men whose work reflected the strength, resilience, and brilliance of Black storytelling.
We remembered James Earl Jones, a man whose voice alone could move mountains. From the commanding tones of Darth Vader to the regal wisdom of Mufasa, Jones gave us characters that felt larger than life. But beyond the blockbusters, he was a classically trained actor who broke barriers on both stage and screen, bringing dignity and depth to roles at a time when opportunities for Black performers were scarce.
The tribute continued with Louis Gossett Jr., the first Black man to win an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. His performance in An Officer and a Gentleman wasn’t just award-worthy—it was historic. Throughout his career, Gossett used his platform to challenge stereotypes, pushing for roles that reflected the fullness of our humanity.
John Amos was remembered as well, a legend who helped redefine Black fatherhood on television. In roles like James Evans Sr. on Good Times and his unforgettable portrayal of Kunta Kinte’s adult self in Roots, Amos gave voice to the everyday strength and sacrifice found in Black families. His characters weren’t just roles—they were reflections of people we knew and loved.
Also honored was Bill Cobbs, whose familiar face graced countless films and TV shows. Whether playing the wise elder, the loyal friend, or the quiet force behind the scenes, Cobbs brought authenticity to every project, proving that supporting roles can still be unforgettable.
And we cannot forget Barry Michael Cooper, the writer behind classics like New Jack City and Sugar Hill. Cooper’s scripts didn’t just tell stories—they chronicled the realities of urban life, addressing the complexities of survival, ambition, and the unbreakable bonds of family and community. His work laid the groundwork for the urban dramas that followed, ensuring our narratives had a place on the big screen.
As the tribute unfolded, it was more than just a montage of faces. It was a reminder of how deeply Black artistry has shaped the fabric of film. These men didn’t just entertain us—they told our stories, preserved our history, and expanded what was possible for those who would follow.
For the HBCU community and beyond, their legacies serve as inspiration. They remind us why representation matters and why our contributions to culture, art, and storytelling must continue to be recognized and celebrated.
As the lights rose and the show carried on, the applause that filled the room wasn’t just for the work these men left behind. It was for the path they paved—and the responsibility we now carry to keep that path lit.