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'The world has lost a true giant today': Celebs mourn actor-singer-activist Harry Belafonte's death at 96

Celebrities, along with the current and former presidents of the USA mourn Harry Belafonte's death

MANHATTAN, NEW YORK: Harry Belafonte, who was a Jamaican-American singer, actor, and civil rights activist, died on April 25 of “congestive heart failure” at the age of 96. He was residing in his home on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. ‘The Banana Boat Song’ star’s death was announced by his longtime spokesperson Ken Sunshine.

The first Black artist to win an Emmy Award, Belafonte was lovingly called the ‘King of Calypso’. At his death, Hollywood as well as politicians came forward in mourning.

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President Joe Biden

President Joe Biden, from his official POTUS account, commented, "Jill and I are saddened by the passing of a groundbreaking American who used his talent and voice to help redeem the soul of our nation. Harry Belafonte’s accomplishments are legendary and his legacy of outspoken advocacy, compassion, and respect for dignity will endure forever."

Ex-president Barack Obama

Ex-president Barack Obama also took to Twitter to express his grief on Belafonte's death, "Harry Belafonte was a barrier-breaking legend who used his platform to lift others up. He lived a good life – transforming the arts while also standing up for civil rights. And he did it all with his signature smile and style. Michelle and I send our love to his wife, kids, and fans."

Ex-president Bill Clinton

Another former president, Bill Clinton eulogized, "Harry Belafonte spent 96 years breaking down barriers, bridging divides, and standing up for what he believed. His art and activism changed America and the world forever. I’ll always be honored to have known him."

Vice-President Kamala Harris

"Harry Belafonte was one of our nation's most powerful voices for change. America has lost a giant. Doug and I are praying for his family and loved ones," said VP Kamala Harris.

Colin Kaepernick

American civil rights activist and football quarterback Colin Kaepernick commented on his social media, "Thank you, Mr. B, for all of your years of mentorship, guidance, & lifetime of activism fighting for a better future for all of us. You will be missed by many, but your memory & impact live on. Rest in Power. “Movements don't die, because struggle doesn't die.” -Harry Belafonte."

Bernice King

American lawyer and Martin Luther King Jr's daughter Bernice King paid homage to their family friend Harry Belafonte by sharing a sweet anecdote, "When I was a child, #HarryBelafonte showed up for my family in very compassionate ways. In fact, he paid for the babysitter for me and my siblings. Here he is mourning with my mother at the funeral service for my father at Morehouse College. I won’t forget…Rest well, sir."

Martin Luther King III

Matin Luther King III also joined in mourning Belafonte's death, "After dad was assassinated, Harry Belafonte joined me, mom, and my siblings in Memphis. He was one of the only people to make sure that mom and her children were taken care of in the months, days, and years after the assassination. He was there for us even when others had gone."

Patti LaBelle

American R&B singer and actress Patti LaBelle commented, "Rest in love and power Mr. Belafonte! You will always be remembered. #HarryBelafonte."

Majid M Padellan

The author of 'The Liddle'est President', Majid M Padellan commented, "DAMN, RIP Harry Belafonte. Civil rights activist, musician, actor. LEGEND. Rest in power, Sir."

Christiane Amanpour

"May Harry Belafonte, the lionhearted civil rights hero, rest in peace. He inspired generations around the whole world in the struggle for non-violent resistance justice and change. We need his example now more than ever," wrote the CNN Chief International host Christiane Amanpour. 

Jeffrey Wright

Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor Jeffrey Wright wrote, "Harry Belafonte was a standard bearer, in the tradition of Robeson, for generational artistry and deeply informed & committed social & political engagement. Maybe the last of a great tribe. As smart as he was knockdown handsome. He met the moment thruout his life. What a man. RIP."

Wendell Pierce

Stage and screen actor Wendell Pierce wrote, "Harry Belafonte epitomized what the role of an artist should be. The voice that brings together the community to engage each other in the exercise of self determination, the declaration of that society’s values, and in doing that inspire the society to action. A man of conviction."

Stephen Colbert

Comedian and talk show host Stephen Colbert said, "One of the greatest honors and joys of my life. What a man. What a loss. #HarryBelafonte."

Tim Cook

Apple CEO Tim Cook tweeted, "The world has lost a true giant today. Harry Belafonte was a barrier breaker who helped reshape our world through his civil rights advocacy, his music, and his acting. May he rest in peace."

Forest Whitaker

Academy Award-winning actor Forest Whitaker said, "The world met Harry Belafonte when he shattered boundaries as a singer and an actor, but will remember him best as a brave and tireless activist for equality and justice. He was a light through the darkness, inspiring my artistry and my humanity. Rest in power, Mr. Belafonte."

Mia Farrow

'The Great Gatsby' actress Mia Farrow mourned, "We have lost the great Harry Belafonte-beautiful singer, brilliant and brave civil rights activist, a deeply moral and caring man. Miss you already Harry."

Jennifer Hudson

Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Hudson wrote, "So sad to hear about the passing of the legendary Harry Belafonte. Through his work in television, music, film, and stage, he broke down barriers across the entire industry, and so many of us today are forever indebted to him ! So thank you, Mr. Belafonte, for your lasting impact…"

John Travolta

"I had the great pleasure of working with Harry Belafonte in 1995. He was the definition of grace, poise, and generosity of spirit. We will miss you Harry," wrote John Travolta of his 'White Man's Burden' co-star's death.

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