Denzel Washington released the following statement paying tribute to his longtime mentor Sidney Poitier after the pioneering actor’s death on Friday at the age of 94:
“It was a privilege to call Sidney Poitier my friend,” Washington said in a statement provided to The Daily Beast. “He was a gentle man and opened doors for all of us that had been closed for years. God bless him and his family.”
Former U.S. President, Barack Obama released the following statement on the passing of the legendary and Oscar winning actor, Sidney Poiter at the age of 94:
"Through his groundbreaking roles and singular talent, Sidney Poitier epitomized dignity and grace, revealing the power of movies to bring us closer together. He also opened doors for a generation of actors. Michelle and I send our love to his family and legion of fans."
