Renauld White, a pioneering model and actor best known for his role in the soap opera Guiding Light, has passed away at the age of 80. His death was confirmed by his friend and fashion designer Jeffrey Banks, who stated that White died on June 26 in hospice care at Lenox Hill Hospital in Manhattan. The cause of death remains unknown, and his funeral will be held on July 12 in his hometown of Newark, New Jersey.
White’s career began in the 1960s, and he quickly became a trailblazer in the modeling industry, breaking barriers for Black models. He worked with renowned designers such as Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Versace. In addition to modeling, White transitioned to acting, appearing in the CBS soap opera Guiding Light and various other roles. His legacy as a groundbreaking figure in fashion and entertainment will be remembered for years to come.
A Tribute to a Trailblazer
Banks posted a heartfelt tribute to White on Instagram, remembering him as a perfect gentleman and a great ambassador for his brand. His exact words were:
It is with tremendous sadness that I report that my dearest friend and work colleague Renauld White left us yesterday.
He highlighted White’s impact on the fashion industry, noting that White was always the perfect gentleman and broke numerous barriers as a Black model.
A Pioneering Career in Modeling
White’s career in the modeling industry began in the 1960s. He appeared in shows for renowned designers such as Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Jean-Charles de Castelbajac, Versace, and Armani. In 1979, he became the second Black model to appear on the cover of GQ. Banks reflected on White’s achievements, stating:
There were very few Black models at the time. He really broke barriers.
Pushing for Inclusivity
In 2011, White spoke about his efforts to push for inclusivity within the modeling industry. He confronted agents at Wilhelmina, a modeling and talent agency, to advocate for more Black male images. “I wanted to bring about change,” White said. “I really confronted the establishment about why there were not more Black male images. At first, I thought I was going to get thrown in jail and beaten up because of my approach. But then they realized that they were wrong and that they were behind society and behind the times, and that they had to listen to me.”
Transition to Acting
White transitioned from modeling to acting in the 1980s, starring as William Reynolds in the CBS soap opera Guiding Light for seven episodes. His acting career also included roles in the 2014 TV movie Gun Hill and the 2017 horror movie Central Park. Additionally, he made an appearance on Andy Warhol’s short-lived TV series Fashion in 1979.
A Lasting Legacy
White’s modeling agency, Bella Agency, confirmed his death, calling him “one of a kind.” Bella Agency founder Ray Volant stated:
We were so honored to have represented Renauld at Bella Agency New York over the past 10 years. He will be truly missed in the fashion world but not forgotten for all the trailblazing moments he accomplished.
Remembering Renauld White
An obituary from Whigham Funeral Home highlighted White’s significant contributions to the fashion industry. He graced the covers of Essence, Ebony, and Jet, and was the first Black man to cover GQ. The obituary also noted his additional TV credits on One Life to Live, General Hospital, Inside Job, and The Stepford Wives. It described White as an “activist” and “martial artist” with a long and impactful resume.
“Rest in peace, Renauld White. Your legacy as a trailblazer and visionary will forever live on. Your contribution to the fashion industry will continue to inspire and empower future generations of models,” the obituary read. He went on to add:
Your unique style, talent, and passion will be sorely missed, but your influence will continue to shape the industry for years to come.
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