Andre Braugher, the Emmy-winning actor who played the stern and witty Captain Raymond Holt on the comedy series Brooklyn Nine-Nine, has died at the age of 61.
His publicist confirmed that he passed away on December 11, 2023, after a brief illness.
Braugher was born in Chicago on July 1, 1962, and graduated from Stanford University and the Juilliard School. He began his career on stage and screen, earning acclaim for his roles in films such as Glory, Primal Fear, and City of Angels. He rose to fame as Detective Frank Pembleton on the critically acclaimed drama series Homicide: Life on the Street, for which he won a Primetime Emmy Award in 1998.
In 2013, he joined the cast of Brooklyn Nine-Nine, a police procedural comedy created by Dan Goor and Michael Schur. He portrayed Captain Holt, the serious and intellectual leader of a team of quirky detectives in the 99th Precinct of the New York City Police Department. His deadpan delivery, dry humor, and impeccable timing made him a fan favorite and earned him four more Emmy nominations, as well as two Golden Globe nominations. The show ran for eight seasons and 153 episodes, ending on September 16, 2021.
Braugher was also known for his voice work, lending his distinctive voice to animated shows such as BoJack Horseman and Spirit Untamed. He also appeared in other series such as The Good Fight, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and American Experience. He was praised for his versatility, range, and professionalism as an actor.
Braugher is survived by his wife of 32 years, Ami Brabson, and their three children. His co-stars, friends, and fans have expressed their grief and condolences on social media, remembering him as a kind, generous, and brilliant person. He will be greatly missed by the entertainment industry and the public alike.
Rest in peace, Daptain.
By Salam Bustanji
