US film star Richard Roundtree hailed as ‘true icon’ after death aged 81

US film star Richard Roundtree was hailed as a pioneer (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA)

Hollywood stars have remembered US actor and “pioneer” Richard Roundtree for his role in the Shaft film franchise which “influenced so many” following his death age 81.

The trailblazing actor, best known for starring as the ultra-smooth private detective John Shaft, died at his home in Los Angeles on Tuesday.