In the names of legendary actors, fans often recall Richard Roundtree, who portrayed the iconic role of detective John Shaft in the “Shaft” film series. The actor is known for his exemplary acting style and magnetic personality, with a nickname, “the first black action hero.”
However, behind the persona of an actor, he is also known for being a supportive and dedicated family man. But, you may wonder about his family, his children, and his wife. In this exploration, we will be shedding light on the personal relations and ties of the actor.
Richard Roundtree was married and divorced twice throughout his life. He got married to Mary Jane Grant in 1963 and fathered his only son, John James, and daughter Kelli. The marriage ended in 1973, and got married to Karen Michelle Ciernia in 1980 and had three daughters, Nicole, Morgan, and Tayler. Later, in 1998, he got divorced from his second wife. Recently, the actor died at the age of 81 on October 24, 2023, due to pancreatic cancer.
How Many Children Does Richard Roundtree Have? Exploring the Family Ties of the“First Black Action Hero” of Hollywood
The personal lives of celebrities are discussed more than any question of an exam. They live under camera flashes and clicks 24/7. Fans may search whether Harry Styles dated Taylor or not, and they may wonder why Mike Mangini left the Dream Theater. To justify this curiosity these celebrities stay in trend. However, obsession is harmful.
After years, one such celebrity and his family are under scrutiny, yes! You guessed it, Richard Roundtree. The first black action hero of Hollywood land passed away on October 24, 2023. With two marriages and a total of five children, Richard’s personal life is as captivating as the roles he plays. Let’s take a look while connecting the dots between the blended family.
First Marriage and Children
In November 1963, the actor married his first wife, Mary Jane Grant. From their union, two children came into the world, John James and Kelli. John is the only son in this blended family. Despite the joys, the couple got separated from each other after a decade in December 1973.
Interlude with Cathy Lee Crosby
After his divorce, Richard was linked with the actress and TV personality Cathy Lee Crosby. Both confirmed their relationship and stayed together for a significant amount of time. Soon enough, the distance between the couple became visible when he decided to marry Karen M. Ciernia.
Second Marriage and Children
In September 1980, the actor got married to Karen M. Ciernia. From his second marriage, he fathered three daughters, Nicole, Morgan, and Tayler. Sadly, this marital journey also reached the same conclusion and ended in divorce in 1998.
Richard Roundtree’s Children and Their Personal Lives
Richard had 5 children and all of them have a relatively low profile, away from the limelight.
John James Roundtree
The eldest child of Richard Roundtree and Mary Jane Grant, John James Roundtree, is an athletic and talented person. He studied at the University of San Francisco and graduated in 2016. The son has an equal interest in the entertainment field, leading him to explore it for futuristic goals.
Kelli Roundtree
Kelli is Richard’s first daughter from his first marriage. She is the eldest daughter in the blended family, lovely to her father. According to a few reports, she has an innate talent for singing and acting. However, nothing much can be talked about as there is not much evidence.
Nicole Roundtree
She is the first child with the actor’s second marriage with Karen M. Ciernia. This daughter of the family is like the invisible man. She maintains a relatively low public profile, and not much information is readily available about her.
Morgan Roundtree
Morgan is the second child from the second marriage of Rountree. This daughter is more on the political side, who persuaded International Politics at the University of San Francisco. She likely pursued her career in the same field as a security analyst and communication specialist.
Tyler Roundtree
The youngest of the family is known as a horse enthusiast. She is a jumping instructor based in Auburn, California. Tyler has also participated in Pony Club since the 90s. It is also reported that she had won the National Highpoint Championship for WPCSA and more.
The whole family leads a low profile compared to the immense successful life of their father. However, their bond with their father was visibly beautiful and strong. Richard’s legacy is characterized by talent, love, and boundless inspiration, inspiring the young dreamers.
What was your favorite movie of Richard Roundtree? Share your favorites in the comment section.
