Louis Gossett Jr. is a Hollywood great and has been considered one of the most talented actors. On Friday, March 29th, the sad news of his passing at the age of 87, due to prostate cancer, was announced.
He has not only been an influential and respected actor whose talent, dedication and activism have left a lasting mark on the film industry and society in general, but his legacy continues to inspire future generations of artists.
Thanks to his role in “An Officer and a Gentleman“, he managed to win the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, making him the first African American actor to win that award in that category and marking an important milestone in history.
How to watch Louis Gossett Jr. filmography online
An Officer and a Gentleman | 1982
In “An Officer and a Gentleman“, Louis played the role of Sergeant Emil Foley, a tough instructor at the United States Naval Academy who is responsible for training and shaping recruits into Navy officers.
The character is demanding, authoritative, and often ruthless in his training approach, but he also has a deep concern for the success and integrity of his recruits.
Undoubtedly, Sergeant Foley is crucial to the plot of the movie, as his relationship with the main character, Zack Mayo (played by Richard Gere), becomes one of the focal points of the story.
Throughout the film, he challenges and pushes Mayo, demanding the best from him and forcing him to confront his own personal demons and overcome the obstacles that come his way.
Available on Max.
Iron Eagle | 1986
In “Iron Eagle“, Gossett Jr. brings to life Colonel Charles Sinclair, a retired pilot from the United States Air Force. The film, released in 1986, is an action thriller that follows a young pilot named Doug Masters, who embarks on a dangerous rescue mission after his father, a combat pilot, is captured in an enemy country.
The character of Chappy becomes a key figure in Doug’s life, as he offers guidance, support, and assistance to carry out the rescue mission. Despite being retired, he proves to be a skilled and courageous pilot who uses his skills and experience to help Masters and his friends plan and execute the rescue.
Available on Max.
Enemy Mine | 1985
In “Enemy Mine“, a science fiction film released in 1985, Louis Gossett Jr. portrays Jeriba “Jerry” Shigan, an alien of the Drac race. The plot unfolds in a distant future where humanity is at war with an alien race known as the Dracs.
The story follows two pilots, one human named Willis Davidge (played by Dennis Quaid) and the other, Jeriba Shigan, a Drac. Both crash-land on a desolate and desert planet after an aerial combat, becoming stranded enemies and forced to rely on each other to survive in a hostile environment.
Available for purchase or rental through Prime Video, Vudu or Apple TV.
Diggstown | 1992
“Diggstown” is appreciated for its blend of comedy and drama, as well as for the solid performances of its cast, including Louis as Honey Roy Palmer. The film highlights Gossett’s versatility as an actor and his ability to bring characters to life on screen.
The story revolves around a bet that Caine makes with the gambling tycoon John Gillon (played by Bruce Dern), in which he bets that Palmer can defeat ten boxers in a single day. With Palmer’s help and some allies, Caine attempts to carry out the scam in Diggstown, facing challenges and obstacles along the way.
Available on Tubi.
Roots | 1977
In the television miniseries “Roots“, premiered in 1977, Louis Gossett Jr. plays the role of Fiddler. This series, based on Alex Haley’s novel of the same name, tells the story of the African American family of Kunta Kinte over several generations, from their capture in Africa to slavery in the United States and beyond.
The character of Fiddler is a slave who works as a musician and mentor on the plantation where Kunta Kinte is taken after being captured. There, he establishes a significant relationship with Kunta, helping him adapt to his new life as a slave and imparting wisdom and advice on how to survive in that cruel and ruthless environment.
The actor’s performance was acclaimed for its depth and humanity. He brings a mix of wisdom, compassion, and determination to the character, showing the emotional and psychological impact of slavery on the lives of those who suffer from it.
Available for purchase or rental through Prime Video, Vudu or Apple TV.