Hollywood icon Mary Alice has died with tributes pouring in for the late star.
The Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress, best known for her role as Leticia Bostic on A Different World, passed away in New York City on Wednesday.
Her cause of death is unknown.
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Mary starred as Effie Williams in the hit 1976 musical drama Sparkle and also played The Oracle in Matrix Revolutions opposite Keanu Reeves.
Her death was confirmed by the New York Police Department (via Variety), with varying birth certificates confirming Mary was in her 80s at the time of her passing.
Tributes for the late star have since flooded in.
Posting to Twitter, Oscar winner Viola Davis wrote: “RIP Mary Alice…the original Rose Maxson.
“You were one of the greatest actresses of all time!!
“Thank you for the work, inspiration and thank you for Rose. Godspeed Queen.”
The heartfelt tribute followed Mary winning a Tony Award for her portrayal as Rose Maxson on the Broadway run of August Wilson’s Fences, years before Viola stepped into the role onscreen.
Continuing the high profile tributes, The Handmaid’s Tale star Bradley Whitford added: “Exquisite actress. Beautiful, kind soul. Well done, Mary Alice. Godspeed.”
Meanwhile, Fear the Walking Dead and Candyman actor Colman Domingo wrote: “A shoulder we all stood on.
“A round of applause for Mary Alice. Thank you legend. Rest Easy.”
Mary starred in films including Malcolm X during her illustrious acting career.
(Image: EPA)
She was also known for playing Ellie Grant Hubbard on All My Children.
In 2000, Mary was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame and she officially retired from acting in 2005.
She played a brief role in the Kojak TV series before stepping away from the spotlight.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
