It has been reported that actor Keith Jefferson, renowned for his standout roles in director Quentin Tarantino’s iconic films, including ‘Django Unchained’ and ‘The Hateful Eight,’ has passed away at the age of 53.
The actor succumbed to cancer during the night of October 4, as confirmed by his representative, Nicole St. John, who shared the news with The Hollywood Reporter.
Tragically, Keith Jefferson had already revealed his cancer diagnosis in August, making peace with the inevitable journey that lay ahead.
Announcing about his cancer at the time, Keith wrote:
“Every now and then God will give you a challenge and leave it up to you to fix it.
“When I was first diagnosed with cancer I had to stop, pause, and didn’t want to share with anyone. Not my family nor extended family. Today I’m finally at a place to share because my faith is getting stronger.”
Although he had openly shared his cancer diagnosis, the current status of Keith Jefferson’s health remains undisclosed, pending the release of a final medical report. Meanwhile, the family has made a heartfelt request for privacy during this period of mourning.
Keith Jefferson, born on April 7, 1970, in Houston, pursued a BFA in musical theater at the US International in San Diego and later earned an MFA in acting from the University of Arizona. He marked his debut in the world of onscreen acting with his role in ‘Boys on the Side’ in 1995.
His career featured notable appearances in a range of major projects, with a particular emphasis on his roles in Quentin Tarantino’s films, such as ‘Django Unchained’ (2012), ‘The Hateful Eight’ (2015), and ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ (2019).
In addition to his notable roles, Keith Jefferson’s filmography extended to include the mystery film ‘Murder, She Wrote: The Last Free Man’ and the historical war film ‘Buffalo Soldiers.’
Moreover, Jefferson showcased his versatility by venturing into various roles in the entertainment industry. He served as a producer, lent his voice as a voiceover artist, and imparted his acting expertise as a coach. His diverse array of TV and film credits encompassed projects such as ‘Relative Opposites,’ ‘Dad Stop Embarrassing Me!,’ ‘You Too, Bosch: Legacy,’ and ‘Day Shift.’
Jamie Foxx, Jefferson’s co-star in ‘Django Unchained,’ is spearheading tributes to the late actor.
Most recently, he starred in the legal drama film ‘The Burial,’ sharing the screen with close friend Jamie Foxx, who played the lead role.
Foxx, 55, and Jefferson had a deep friendship that extended beyond the silver screen, having first crossed paths as students at US International University in San Diego.
In a poignant gesture, Foxx shared a photo of himself and Jefferson in a handshake pose beside a private plane on Thursday, October 5, and paid a heartfelt tribute to his departed friend.
“Everything hurts right now,” Foxx began. “Having a hard time looking through these pictures, reliving the memories of us having a great time, going to miss you man gonna miss you…ever since we met back in college, you have been in incredible soul.
“God rest, NEVER THOUGHT I WOULD HAVE TO SEE THE WORDS ABOUT MY FRIEND RIP.”
Foxx concluded his message by adding four broken heart emojis as a poignant expression of his grief.
Following his post, fans and fellow members of the entertainment industry shared their heartfelt messages of sympathy for Keith Jefferson’s passing, along with cherished recollections of their collaborations and experiences with him.
