Lynda Gravátt, a revered New York stage actress, passed away at the age of 77. Her death was confirmed by the National Black Theatre and her son, David Gravátt. She died in a New Brunswick, New Jersey hospital.
Gravátt, born in Harlem in 1946, had a remarkable career in the theater. She made her Broadway debut at the tender age of 4 in The King and I. Graduating from Howard University in 1971, she appeared in numerous off-Broadway productions such as The Old Settler, Crowns, and Doubt.
On Broadway, Gravátt starred in productions like King Hedley II, 45 Seconds from Broadway, and The House That Will Not Stand. She also ventured into screen acting, with credits in various films and TV shows, including a notable role in the 2017 movie Roman J. Israel, Esq.
Her talent and presence were acknowledged by many in the industry. Tony Award-winning director Kenny Leon paid tribute to her, as did actress Viola Davis, who worked with Gravátt and expressed deep sorrow at her passing.
Lynda Gravátt is survived by her sons David and Oge, grandchildren Josephine, Lucas, Ishmale, Ishana, and Isabella, and her sister, documentary filmmaker June Cross.