Andre Braugher, a talented actor known for his remarkable performances in acclaimed crime series such as “Homicide: Life on the Street” and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” has passed away at the age of 61. His representative confirmed that he died on Monday after a recent illness. Braugher’s contributions to the world of television were significant, earning him multiple Emmy nominations and accolades throughout his career.
A Stellar Career
Homicide: Life on the Street
One of Andre Braugher’s most memorable roles was that of Detective Frank Pemberton in the critically acclaimed series, “Homicide: Life on the Street.” His portrayal of the character was widely praised, and in 1998, he won his first Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. Braugher’s nuanced performance captivated audiences, showcasing his ability to bring complex characters to life.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
Following his success in “Homicide: Life on the Street,” Braugher took on a completely different role in the comedy series “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.” He portrayed the no-nonsense Captain Raymond Holt, a character loved by fans for his dry wit and unwavering dedication to his team. Braugher’s performance garnered him four Emmy nominations, further solidifying his versatility as an actor.
A Reflection on Policing
In 2020, during the height of the Black Lives Matter movement, Andre Braugher shared his thoughts on his portrayals of police officers in television shows and their impact on real-world perceptions of law enforcement. In an interview with Variety, he expressed his realization of being immersed in the storytelling of these characters and the influence it had on his own perspective.
“It’s almost like the air you breathe or the water that you swim in. It’s hard to see. But because there are so many cop shows on television, that’s where the public gets its information about the state of policing,” Braugher said.
Braugher also acknowledged the problematic narrative of police officers breaking the law to “defend the law” and the dangerous precedent it sets. He emphasized the need for collective action to address this issue and challenge the portrayal of law enforcement in media.
A Lasting Impact
The Good Fight
Nyambi Nyambi, Braugher’s co-star in “The Good Fight,” expressed how working with Braugher had a profound impact on his life and career. Nyambi spoke about their conversations on acting, storytelling, and the creative process, highlighting the valuable lessons he learned from Braugher.
“I learned to keep asking questions until you find what is the key center of the scene. And that’s been amazing for me,” Nyambi shared. “And then to watch his work back? He’s incredible. His sense of humor, his professionalism, all of those things”.
Nyambi expressed his admiration for Braugher’s talent and professionalism, viewing him as a role model for his own career aspirations.
Tributes from Co-Stars
Upon hearing the news of Andre Braugher’s passing, his co-stars began paying tribute to his remarkable work and the impact he had on their lives. Terry Crews, Braugher’s co-star in “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” took to Instagram to express his disbelief and honor the time they spent together on set.
“I’m honored to have known you, laughed with you, worked with you, and shared 8 glorious years watching your irreplaceable talent,” Crews wrote.
Crews further expressed his gratitude for Braugher’s wisdom, advice, kindness, and friendship, and extended his heartfelt condolences to Braugher’s wife and family.
A Multifaceted Talent
Film and Television
Andre Braugher’s talent extended beyond television. He made his film debut in 1989, starring alongside Denzel Washington in “Glory.” Throughout his career, he appeared in various films, including “Salt” and “City of Angels”. Braugher also showcased his versatility by taking on diverse roles in television shows such as “Law & Order,” “Salem’s Lot,” and the upcoming Netflix series “The Residence”.
Stage Performances
In addition to his work on screen, Braugher made a name for himself in the world of theater. He earned Obie Awards for his performances in stage productions of “Henry V” and “The Whipping Man”. Braugher’s dedication to his craft and his ability to excel in different artistic mediums showcased his immense talent and versatility.
Remembering Andre Braugher
Andre Braugher’s untimely passing leaves a void in the entertainment industry. His contributions to television, film, and theater will be remembered for years to come. Braugher’s ability to bring complex characters to life and his thought-provoking reflections on real-world issues have left a lasting impact on both his co-stars and audiences alike.
As we bid farewell to this multifaceted talent, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind and the indelible mark he made on the world of entertainment.
Rest in peace, Andre Braugher.
