Born: 20 February 1927 · Died: 6 January 2022 · Age at death: 94
How old was Sidney Poitier when he died?
Sidney Poitier died aged 94. He was born on 20 February 1927 and died on 6 January 2022.
First Black performer to win the Academy Award for Best Actor
Did you know?He was born unexpectedly in Miami while his parents were visiting from the Bahamas, which granted him automatic American citizenship.
Quick facts
Date of birth20 February 1927
Date of death6 January 2022
Age at death94
NationalityBahamian-American
BirthplaceMiami, United States
Occupationfilm actor, film director, diplomat
Editor's Take:
Sidney Poitier carried a heavy weight with grace. In the 1950s and 1960s he was often the only black leading man in Hollywood. Each role was read as a statement about race in America. He chose characters of quiet dignity and moral strength. Later critics called them too perfect, but they opened doors. He also directed hit comedies and served as a Bahamian ambassador. His career made it easier for later black actors to win leading roles. Denzel Washington called him a guiding light.
Key Milestones
1950: Makes his film debut
1964: Wins the Oscar for Lilies of the Field
1967: Stars in three hit films in one year
2009: Receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Sidney Poitier ( PWAH-tyay; February 20, 1927 – January 6, 2022) was a Bahamian-American actor, film director, activist, and diplomat. In 1964, he was the first black actor and first Bahamian to win the Academy Award for Best Actor.
