Renauld White, one of the first Black models to achieve mainstream success and who later became an actor on the soap opera Guiding Light, passed away at age 80 on June 26. He died at New York City’s Lenox Hill Hospital, where he had been in hospice care.
Fashion designer Jeffrey Banks, a longtime friend of White’s, confirmed his passing. Banks took to Instagram to express his sorrow, sharing, It is with tremendous sadness that I report that my dearest friend and work colleague RENAULD WHITE, left us yesterday. Modeling for me from the very start of my career RENAULD was always the perfect gentleman and a great ambassador for my brand.
A trailblazer for Black models, White started his career in the 1960s with Zoli Modeling Agency and went on to work with top designers such as Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Donna Karan. He also modeled for Yves Saint Laurent, Versace, Armani, and Jean-Charles de Castelbajac.
He made history in November 1979 by becoming the second Black model to appear on the cover of GQ magazine, following Urs Althaus in November 1977. His influential career included major advertising campaigns for Macy’s, Arrow Shirts, Black Tie cologne, and Vitalis.
White was more than just a model; he was a *vocal advocate for diversity*. He once shared his thoughts on challenging the status quo: I wanted to bring about change. I really confronted the establishment about why there were not more Black male images,” White said. “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.
As an actor, White starred as William Reynolds on Guiding Light during the 1980s. His other acting credits included roles in TV films like Gun Hill (2014) and movies such as Central Park (2017). Despite his success in modeling and acting, he remained dedicated to enhancing representation within the fashion industry.
White was remembered fondly by colleagues across the industry. David Neeman of the Loyalty Foundation praised him as an extraordinary man.
In Jeffrey Banks’ words upon hearing widespread appreciation for White: I am sure that he would be overwhelmed by the love, support, and words of impact his life and career had on so many people.
A funeral service for Renauld White will be held on July 12 at Whigham Funeral Home in Newark, New Jersey. As we remember his remarkable contributions to fashion and acting, let us cherish his lasting legacy.
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