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Richard Roundtree sadly passed away on October 24, 2023, but the Shaft actor enjoyed an iconic career in Hollywood.
He was known as being “the first black action hero” for his portrayal of private detective John Shaft in the 1971 film Shaft, and its four sequels, released between 1972 and 2019.
He also had an active family life, welcoming five children across two marriages.
While the Shaft star ultimately wound up single at the end of his life, he did find love through each stage of his career, first marrying Mary Jane in 1963.
Find out everything you should know about Richard Roundtree marriages, divorce and children below.
Richard Roundtree’s First Marriage: Mary Jane Grant
Richard Roundtree was married to Mary Jane Grant from 1963 to 1973.
During their marriage, they had two children: John James and Kelli.
Roundtree has said that he and Grant had a good relationship, but that they ultimately decided to divorce because they were growing in different directions.
Richard Roundtree’s Second Marriage: Karen M. Ciernia
Roundtree’s second marriage was to Karen M. Ciernia in 1980.
They had three children together: Tayler, Morgan, and Nicole.
Roundtree and Ciernia were married for 18 years before divorcing in 1998.
Richard Roundtree’s Children
Roundtree has five children in total: two from his first marriage and three from his second marriage.
They are John James, Kelli, Tayler, Morgan, and Nicole Roundtree.
Who is John James?
John James Roundtree, commonly known as Jay Roundtree, is the eldest son of Richard Roundtree.
He was on November 3, 1998.
Jay pursued his education at the University of San Francisco and completed his studies at Jesuit High School in 2016.
Although the 21-year-old does not have legit work experience, he did volunteer as a soccer coach for Dyer Kelly Elementary in 2014 and Make-a-wish North Carolina in 2015.
Who is Kelli Roundtree?
Kelli Roundtree is the eldest daughter of Richard Roundtree and Mary Jane Grant.
According to opoyi.com, Kelli is an actress.
She gained recognition for her performance in the Broadway musical “Dreamgirls” (1981).
Who is Tayler Roundtree?
Richard Roundtree’s daughter, Tayler Roundtree, is a jumping instructor based in Auburn, CA.
Who is Morgan Roundtree?
Morgan Roundtree, is currently pursuing International Politics at the University of San Francisco.
According to Morgan’s LinkedIn, she is currently working at the Marshall Wace since 2017.
Before Wace, she served as a security analyst and communication specialist for the UN Women in 2017.
Besides Morgan’s interest in Politics, she graduated from the University of Liverpool in business media and communication.
