Actor Thomas Jefferson Byrd, most known for his roles in several Spike Lee films, was shot and killed in Atlanta over the weekend. Byrd started in several Lee films, including Chi-Raq, Clockers, Red Hook Summer, He Got Game, Get On the Bus and Girl 6. He also appeared in Lee’s She’s Gotta Have It Netflix series.
Lee was the first to announced the news on social media, stating that the actor was murdered. He wrote on Instagram, “I’m So Sad To Announce The Tragic Murder Of Our Beloved Brother Thomas Jefferson Byrd Last Night In Atlanta,Georgia. Tom Is My Guy,Here Below You See Him As The Frightening Character Errol Barnes In CLOCKERS. Brother Byrd Also Did His Thang In My Joints- CHI-RAQ,SWEET BLOOD OF JESUS, RED HOOK SUMMER,BAMBOOZLED,HE GOT GAME,GET ON THE BUS,GIRL 6 And CLOCKERS. May We All Wish Condolences And Blessings To His Family. Rest In Peace Brother Byrd.”
News outlets confirmed Byrd’s passing. The Hollywood Reporter stated that police were dispatched to the scene early Saturday morning. “Upon arrival, units located a male lying unresponsive at the location. Grady EMS responded to the scene and pronounced the male deceased from multiple gunshot wounds to the back. The victim was later identified as Thomas Byrd.” His death is currently under investigation with homicide detectives, according to the report.
Aside from his work with Lee, Byrd’s work also includes the 2003 Broadway revival of Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, for which he was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play. He also appeared in other films like Set it Off.
Our thoughts are with Byrd’s family and loved ones at this time.
Photo: Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images
