The entertainment industry, globally mourns the passing of the veteran actor who is a phenomenal person. He is most recognised for opening doors for black people.

Even the former President of the United States, Barack Obama, is mourning his death and also paid tribute to him. Obama defined Poitier as a person who epitomised dignity and grace and also singular talent.

Mzansi Celebrity News © learnt with sadness over the passing of the veteran actor, Sidney Poitier, whose death has touched many people.

Sidney Poitier died at the age of 94. He was born in 1927. His notable work saw the Bahamian American broke down racial barriers with his film performances in the 50s and 60s. The acclaimed actor made history in 1963 when he became the first Black person to receive an Academy Award for best actor Actor for his performance in Lillies in the Field. Poitier also starred in The Defiant Ones, 1958; A Raisin in the Sun, 1961; and Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner, In The Heat of the Night, and to Sir With Love, all in 1967.

Oprah, responded to the news in an emotional statement and this is what she said:

For me,the greatest of the Great Trees’had fallen: Sidney Poitier.

She was very much honoured to have loved him as a mentor, friend, brother, confidant, wisdom teacher. The utmost, highest regard and praise for his most magnificent, gracious, eloquent life. Oprah stated that she treasured him, adored him and had an enormous soul she will forever cherish.

Oprah sent her messages of comfort to Poitier’s wife, Joanna Shimkus and all his beautiful six daughters.

Poiter was a widely admired artist and a trailblazer and mostly, for Oprah, Poitier was a role model.

He was the son of tomato farmers in the Bahamas, Poiter reached vast heights without any formal education.