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How did 'Queen Sugar' star Carol Sutton die? Fans pay condolences to 'most treasured actor' after death at 76

Carol Sutton was practically the Queen of New Orleans theater, having graced the stages across the city for decades

Carol Sutton, who was known for her roles in 'Steel Magnolias' and 'Queen Sugar', died this week at the age of 76. The actress died of Covid-19 related complications as confirmed by New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell.

"Carol Sutton was practically the Queen of New Orleans theater, having graced the stages across the city for decades," LaToya said in a statement. "The world may recognize her from her performances in movies and on TV — whether it's Treme or Claws, or Runaway Jury or Queen Sugar — but we will always remember her commanding stage presence, her richly portrayed characters, and the warm heart she shared with her fellow cast and crew in productions such as 4000 Miles and A Raisin in the Sun. May she rest in God's perfect peace."

After her acting debut in the late 1960s in Dashiki Project Theatre productions, she performed in many New Orleans productions like 'The Last Madam' and 'A Raisin the Sun and Native Tongues'. She then had a string of roles in television in 'The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman' with Cicely Tyson and was also seen in 'In the Heat of the Night' and the TV movie 'Uncle Tom’s Cabin' with Avery Brooks. Not just, she was recently seen in many TV shows, including 'Scream Queens', the 2016 remake of the series 'Roots', 'Treme', 'True Detective' and 'Lovecraft Country'.

Paying tribute to the actress, director Ava DuVernay tweeted, "On behalf of the QUEEN SUGAR family, we celebrate the life of the stellar Carol Sutton. It was our honor to welcome this veteran actress of stage + screen to our show as Aunt Martha in Episode 409, “Stare at the Same Fires.” We bless her. May she rise and rest in peace and power." Actor Anika Noni Rose said, "RIP Ms. Carol. I love you. And I will miss you so much. #CarolSutton #NOLA #Covid19 #YourCountryOwedYouBetter."

Actor Wendell Pierce said, "A legend in theater & film from New Orleans has passed away. Carol Sutton had over 100 film and television credits along with a lifelong presence in the theater community.She was a mentor to us all and her work by example built a career on par with Maggie Smith. RIP beloved Carol." Actor and Director Mark Duplass said, "I was fortunate to work with her for a few days on Jeff, Who Lives At Home. What a beautiful person and life."

Director Matthew A Cherry said, "Can’t believe we lost Natalie Desselle-Reid and Tiny “Zues” Lister Jr. all in the same week. Two artists that both meant so much to the culture. 2020 is the worst." Choreographer Dollie Rivas said, "I am so blessed to have known Carol Sutton. Not only was she a superb Actress, but she was also the most loving, kind, and humbled woman I’ve ever known. She always had a warm and welcoming smile on her face. She was definitely a Beautiful Soul."

Twitter erupted with condolences for the actor. "This is incredibly sad news to hear today. Rest In Peace Ms. Carol Sutton. One of New Orleans’ most treasured actors," one tweet read and another said, "This ever-widening circle of COVID death is so painful. Sending condolences to the family and friends of this wonderful artist."

The actress is survived by her son, Archie Sutton Jr of Houston; daughter Aunya Sutton of New Orleans, her brother Oris Buckner of Houston, sister, Adrienne Jopes of Houston; and five grandchildren.