NEW YORK – Emmy-winning actor Andre Braugher will be remembered for his dedication not only to his craft, but to his community. after his sudden death at the age of 61.
Whether drama or comedy, his deadpan demeanor and signature scowl made Braugher special in every role he played. Although Braugher was known on the screen, he also made a name for himself on the stage, appearing in numerous Shakespeare in the Park plays. Artistic director Oskar Eustis said in a statement:
“Andre Braugher was a giant of an actor and an extraordinary human being. His untimely death causes shock and sadness. But we must also remember his deeply committed work, a legacy from which we will all benefit in the years to come.”
Here at The Public he left behind a large collection of performances, from King Henry in HENRY V and Claudius in HAMLET to Duke Senior and Duke Frederick in AS YOU LIKE IT and many others. He combined brilliant language skills with a powerful, passionate sense of truth. His trademark intensity was peppered with an impressive sense of humor, a quality the world discovered on “Brooklyn Nine-Nine.”
We were in talks about bringing Andre here in a new play next season, but the plans were cruelly interrupted. We are left with memories of an accomplished actor, a true gentleman and a man whose passion for his work was never allowed to overshadow the love of his family.
I had the privilege and honor of directing Andre as Claudius in HAMLET 15 years ago, and I will never forget his meticulous work ethic and his continued kindness to me, even though I was as nervous as I could be during my Delacorte debut . I will miss him very much and at the same time I am deeply grateful for what he gave me and all of us.
Braugher’s board seat at the Classical Theater of Harlem supported free Shakespeare performances at Marcus Garvey Park, support that continues to this day. The actor’s final request was that well-wishers donate to the charity instead of sending flowers.
“The flood was overwhelming,” said artistic production director Ty Jones. “In less than 24 hours we received more than 1,000 donations, so I don’t think I even realized his impact on the world.”
Jones remembers his mentor’s ability to appear larger than life but remain focused on family.
“This business can be very difficult for a family,” Jones said, “and if you don’t have the same level of discipline in the work we do, it’s easy to see how things go wrong.”
During his time as a Det., Braugher became a household name. Frank Pembleton on the drama “Homicide: Life on the Street,” in which he won his first Emmy and met Ami Brabson, his on-screen wife, whom he then married in real life.
In recent years, he played Captain Raymond Holt on “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” for eight seasons and portrayed Ri’chard Lane on “The Good Fight” on Paramount+.
Braugher made his home in South Orange, New Jersey, where he and Ami raised their three sons together. His cause of death was not revealed.
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