Tributes have been pouring in for much-loved actor and anti-racism activist Louis Mahoney who has died aged 81.
Mahoney's agency confirmed the news of his death in a statement on Twitter saying. "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our wonderful client, Louis Mahoney".
"Louis paved the way for many actors who followed: a lifelong activist and champion of antiracism".
"His warmth and good humour will be sorely missed. A celebration of his life will follow".
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our wonderful client, Louis Mahoney. Louis paved the way for many actors who followed: a lifelong activist and champion of antiracism. His warmth and good humour will be sorely missed. A celebration of his life will follow. pic.twitter.com/sC4GM9dRKO
— Waring and McKenna (@WaringMcKenna) June 29, 2020
The Gambian born British actor has an impressive resumé as an actor, he was one of the first black thespians to join the Royal Shakespeare Company in the 1960s and starred in several films including Omen II and The Plague of the Zombies as well as the anti-apartheid movie Cry Freedom. On the small screen, his credits include Doctor Who, Fawlty Towers, Holby City and Miss Marple. Mahoney was last seen on TV this year in the BBC One’s The Split as Bishop Tony.
Acting aside, he will always be remembered for helping to found the organisation Performers Against Racism in the 1980s, to campaign against apartheid in South Africa. Mahoney also worked with the Equity union to improve the representation of non-white actors on British TV and was its Vice President between 1994 and 1996.
The Royal Court Theatre perhaps best summed up what every social media post has said in some form or another, "We're so sad to hear of the passing of Louis Mahoney. A brilliant actor and the most wonderful human being; a devoted activist and extraordinary performer, he will be sorely missed."
We’re so sad to hear of the passing of Louis Mahoney. A brilliant actor and the most wonderful human being; a devoted activist and extraordinary performer, he will be sorely missed. Here we remember him in our 2011 production of debbie tucker green’s truth and reconciliation. pic.twitter.com/wpdlLiehnw
— Royal Court (@royalcourt) June 30, 2020
May you RIP Louis Mahoney – thank you for fighting the good fight.
