Barack Obama Joins Honors To Actor Sidney Poitier, Who Has Been Described As A "Trailblazer"
After Sidney Poitier's death at the age of 94, Barack Obama and Oprah Winfrey paid tribute to the "trailblazing" Hollywood great.
The Bahamian-American actor was most known for his roles in films such as In The Heat Of The Night, Blackboard Jungle, and Guess Who's Coming To Dinner, and was the first black man to receive an Academy Award for Best Actor.
After awarding Poitier the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009, former US President Barack Obama released a photo of himself and his wife Michelle standing with him.
"Through his trailblazing roles and extraordinary talent, Sidney Poitier epitomised dignity and elegance, showcasing the ability of film to bring us closer together," President Barack Obama wrote.
"He also provided opportunities for a new generation of actors."
"Michelle and I express our heartfelt condolences to his family and legions of admirers."
"For me, the greatest of the 'Great Trees' has fallen: Sidney Poitier," US talk show host Winfrey wrote with a photo of the couple in a joyous hug.
"It has been an honor to have him as a mentor. Friend. Brother. Confidant. Teacher of wisdom.
"I have the utmost respect and admiration for his magnificent, charming, and expressive life."