On this day in 1964, Sidney Poitier made history becoming the first Black actor to win an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in “Lilies of the Field” (Mississippi Today). Since then, Poitier broke down barriers for actors of color and became a leading man in Hollywood (GoldDerby).
Recently, the entertainment industry lost a legend in Sidney Poitier, who passed away in 2022 (NBC News). Although he is no longer with us, his legacy will continue to live on. In honor of his work and push for diversity in the film industry, ASU’s film school unveiled a new mural of Poitier in Mesa, Arizona (12 News).
Apple TV+ also released a documentary called “Sidney,” which reflects on Poitier’s life and legacy, produced by Oprah Winfrey (TODAY). The documentary offers insight into his work and influence on the entertainment industry. However, it is important to note that Poitier was not one to shy away from the media’s fixation on race, as he was known to call them out (Fox News).
Although he may be gone, Poitier’s impact on the entertainment industry and his fight for diversity will continue to be felt by generations to come.
