Powers Boothe, a well-known character actor who won an Emmy for his portrayal of Jim Jones in “Guyana Tragedy: The Story of Jim Jones,” and also appeared in TV shows such as “Agents of Shield,” and “Deadwood,” has died of natural causes at his Los Angeles home.
The 68-year-old actor grew up in Texas and began his acting career in theater, playing a number of Shakespearean productions, including Henry IV. His Broadway debut came in the late 1970s playing in “Lone Star” and “Private Wars.”
Powers won his Emmy as lead actor in 1980 for portraying Jim Jones. He won that award during an actors strike and chose to cross the picket line to accept his trophy, saying, “This may be either the bravest moment of my career or the dumbest,”the Hollywood Reporter entertainment industry trade publication said. The Reporter was one of the first to disclose the death.
Boothe was well known for playing villains. The character actor also appeared in the films, “Sin City,” “Avengers: World Security Council” and “Tombstone.”
It’s with great sadness that I mourn the passing of my friend Powers Boothe. A dear friend, great actor, devoted father & husband.
— Beau Bridges (@MrBeauBridges) May 14, 2017
Boothe’s close friend Beau Bridges broke the news of his death Sunday on Twitter, saying, “It’s with great sadness that I mourn the passing of my friend Powers Boothe. A dear friend, great actor, devoted father and husband.”
A Boothe representative told the Reporter a private service will be held in Texas, with a memorial celebration under consideration.
Donations in his name can be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation, which honors the nation’s defenders, veterans, first responders, their families and those in need.
–City News Service