US soap star Renauld White is dead
In the 1970s, Renauld White achieved what most Blacks had been denied up until then: He began his modeling career, later making a name for himself in the USA as an actor. Now, White has passed away at the age of 80. A longtime friend, fashion designer Jeffrey Banks, shared the news with Women's Wear Daily.
Model and soap opera star Renauld White is dead. The actor, who worked on the American soap opera "Springfield Story" for two years, passed away on Wednesday, June 26, at a hospice in Manhattan. Banks announced this news in an interview with Women's Wear Daily. He did not provide further details on the cause of death.
Jeffrey Banks himself spoke out on Instagram: "I sadly report that my dearest friend and colleague Renauld White has left us."
White was a constant companion in Banks' career from the start, a fact White introduced to Banks' mother, who referred to White as Banks' "older brother." The designer will remember the barriers White broke down during his nearly 50-year career and the love he shared as a trusted friend.
White paved the way for Black models
In the 1970s, White gained attention primarily as a model. He became the second Black model ever to appear on the cover of GQ magazine in 1979. White was "a trailblazer," according to Banks. "At the time, there were very few Black models. He really broke down barriers," a fact of which White was proud. During his career, White worked with top designers such as Bill Blass, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Donna Karan.
White's funeral will take place on July 12 in his home state of New Jersey.
Renauld White's impact on Hollywood and the entertainment industry extended beyond acting, as he was also a trailblazing Black model. His appearance on the cover of GQ magazine in 1979 was a significant milestone, breaking barriers in the fashion world.
Despite his success in the modeling and acting worlds, White's legacy in the realm of TV is noteworthy as well. He starred in the American soap opera "Springfield Story" for two years, showcasing his talent on the small screen.
