Shaft star Richard Roundtree dies aged 81 after battle with pancreatic cancer

American actor Richard Roundtree, best known for his work in Shaft, has died at the age of 81.

According to Deadline Hollywood, the star died after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

The publication reports that his family was by his side when he died.

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TMZ reports that the actor was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer just two months ago.

He was considered the first black action hero in Hollywood, according to the publication.

He is known for playing John Shaft in the Shaft movie franchise, with the first film coming out in 1971.

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It centered on a crime lord hiring Shaft to find his kidnapped daughter.

It reportedly earned $(US)12 million at the box office when it first came out, or $18.7million.

In 2019, a reboot of Shaft came out and starred Samuel L. Jackson as his character's son.

He also appeared in films including Speed Racer in 2008, and 1997's George of the Jungle.

Roundtree also appeared in Shaft sequels including 1973's Shaft In Africa.

The New Yorker is survived by four children.