American icon Cicely Tyson died aged 96 on Thursday evening leaving behind a grieving fellowship who was saddened to lose such a distinguished personality.
The Emmy and Tony Award-winning artist made a name for herself in all forms whether it be filmed television or theater. She allured the audience with her captivating and flawless depiction of characters.
The model and trailblazer was a true inspiration for many other aspiring actors. In her 70 years long career, Tyson was bestowed with the highest accolades and received the Presidential Medal Of Freedom for her countless contributions.
Coming from a humble background, Cicely once shared that her mother did not want to pursue this path since she didn’t want her to do THAT but never found out what THAT was. Her memoir ‘Just As I Am’ was published on Tuesday.
She began her career from a role in the film ‘Odds Against Tomorrow’ followed by ‘The Comedians’. ‘The Heart is a Lonely Hunter’ and ‘A Man Called Adam’. She continued to work extremely hard to bag a part in the drama ‘Sounder’ which memorized watchers and ended up helping her in capturing many Oscar nominations including Best Actress.
She was acknowledged for her portrayal of intricately layered characters in 2018. Tyson rose to fame through several memorable television appearances in the outstanding series Roots, ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman, The Marva Collins Story, The Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All, The Women of Brewster Palace and When No One Would Listen.
Born in Harlem and having a Black Heritage, she refused to play drug addicts and prostitutes or maids as she did not want to demean or put down her community but nonetheless grabbed good roles when the opportunity came and gave it her best.
She was praised and applauded for her sheer dedication and devotion towards the profession and the fraternity looked up to her as a source of guidance and motivation.
Reminiscing, Whoopie Goldberg said that when you think about artistry, grace, and excellence in acting the first name that comes to mind is Cicely Tyson.
Tyson was a warm-hearted and down to earth individual, very friendly and kind to her peers, and took very good care of her juniors. She encouraged them to shoot for the stars and have faith in themselves to turn their dreams into a reality.