Richard Roundtree, Shaft Star and Bowen’s Dad on Chicago Fire, Dies at 81

One Chicago fans may remember the star in his role as Wallace Boden, Sr. in Season 4 of Chicago Fire in 2015. Boden Sr. was a retired detective and the father of Chief Boden (Eamonn Walker). In Roundtree’s episodes, his character surprisingly reappeared in his son’s life after his grandson was born. However, animosity between the two characters ensued.

“Richard is an amazing actor who will be a terrific addition to our depth chart for four episodes,” executive producer at the time, Matt Olmstead, told EW after the news of Roundtree’s casting was announced in 2014.

His family was by his side at the time of his passing, according to a statement by his manager, Patrick McMinn. He is survived by his five children, Kelli, Nicole, Taylor, Morgan, and John.

“His trailblazing career changed the face of entertainment around the globe and his enduring legacy will be felt for generations to come,” McMinn said, via NBC News.

Richard Roundtree appears as Letts in Season 1 Episode 6 of The Player.

Roundtree was best known for originating the role of John Shaft in the Shaft film franchise. Other roles include Charles Deveaux in Heroes, Talbot in Se7en, and Mr. Shaw in Desperate Housewives. He was also in a 1983 episode of the original Magnum P.I., and played the role of Dr. Daniel Reubens in the NBC soap opera Generations that ran from 1989 to 1991.