Robinne Lee Instagram – This photo just popped up in my memories from this day in 2013 when I was on location in Atlanta shooting Being Mary Jane with this wonderful cast. I made many friends on that set whom I still hold dear. One of them was the phenomenal Richard Roundtree.
When Richard passed in October, I was still reeling from the death of both a very close family member and a great friend, and the grief was so overwhelming, I couldn’t begin to process another incredible loss. Seeing his smiling face greet me today feels like hearing the news for the first time all over again. This man, was not just an extraordinarily gifted and generous actor, but a legend. Particularly, in my community. To have worked with him was an absolute gift. But to have spent time with him over many meals and drinks while he regaled us with stories from his more than 5 decades in the business was an unspeakable treasure.
I started working in films in the 90s, and so I have been on many a set, where the only distraction is your fellow castmates, and so you bond trading stories and ideas and hopes and dreams. And I have learned so very much from those with more years and more experience than I have.
If you walk onto a set today, most everyone is buried in their iPhone. Not talking to each other. Not even reading a book. It’s such a huge loss and these younger actors don’t know what they’ve missed out on by not having that experience of sharing. I try to tell every young actor I have the opportunity to work with today to make friends with their older colleagues. Ask questions. Listen. Learn. It is absolutely invaluable.
Richard was not just a legend, but a storyteller, and I feel unbelievably lucky to have crossed paths with him on our separate journeys.
Rest well, kind sir. You are deeply missed. | Posted on 05/Feb/2024 21:20:52
