Andre Braugher, who starred in the laugh-out-loud television series Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Homicide: Life on the Street, passed away on Monday. He was 61.
Braugher’s publicist, Jennifer Allen, confirmed the news of his passing to Variety.
Andre Braugher shined as Captain Raymond Holt on the comedy series Brooklyn Nine-Nine. By far, my favorite character in the series, Braugher’s performance as the stoic and sinisterly sassy Captain Holt is the stuff of legend. Alongside his co-stars, Braugher helped lead the series from 2013 until 2021. Not typically known for his comedic chops before landing the role of Captain Holt, Braugher left his comfort zone in the rearview to surprise everyone with an unforgettable and consistently hilarious performance.
A Chicago native, Braugher excelled at playing cops with integrity on television. He began his career playing a detective opposite Telly Savalas in a string of Kojak telefilms. Before long, he landed a pivotal role in Glory, the 1989 Civil War film starring Matthew Broderick and Denzel Washington.
Recognizing his infinite talent, Braugher earned 11 Emmy nominations for his performances as Captain Raymond Holt, Nick Atwater in FX Networks’ Thief, Detective Frank Pemberton in Homicide: Life on the Street, and Benjamin O. Davis in HBO’s Tuskegee Airmen.
The love for his role as Detective Frank Pemberton equals fans’ affection for Captin Holt. The take-no-guff law enforcer was a member of the “murder police” who didn’t take kindly to criminal scum. Other notable roles include Brent Norton of The Mist, Captain Bradford of Poseidon, Marcellus Washington in the TV series Hack, Dr. Ben Gideon in Gideon’s Crossing, and more.
Following the news of Braugher’s passing, his fellow officers at Brooklyn Nine-Nine paid tribute online.
“Can’t believe you’re gone so soon,” said Terry Crews, who played Terry Jeffords in the comedic series. “I’m honored to have known you, laughed with you, worked with you and shared 8 glorious years watching your irreplaceable talent,” Crews wrote. “This hurts. You left us too soon. You taught me so much. I will be forever grateful for the experience of knowing you.”
Crews added, “Thank you for your wisdom, your advice, your kindness and your friendship. Deepest condolences to your wife and family in this difficult time. You showed me what a life well lived looks like.”
“Like everyone who was fortunate enough to know Andre, we are heartbroken by the news of his passing,” said Brooklyn Nine-Nine co-creators and executive producers Dan Goor and Michael Schur. “He was one of the most talented dramatic actors in history, and then he decided to try comedy, and he was instantly one of the funniest people ever to do it,” read the statement. “But even greater than his acting talent was the happiness and joy he brought to those around him. And his smile… he had the greatest, brightest, most wonderful smile. Our thoughts and love go to his beautiful, amazing family, whom he loved more than anything. We are grateful for the time we had with him.”
We here at JoBlo wish Mr. Braugher safe passage to the Hereafter. We also want to thank him for sharing his gifts and passion for stage and screen with the world. Our sincerest condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans. Rest well, sir. Thank you for all the laughs, and give Wuntch hell when you see her.