Louis Gossett Jr, the demanding Sergeant of “Dare to Fate”, winner of an Oscar and an Emmy, has died

Louis Gossett Jr.who won a supporting actor Oscar for his role as Richard Gere’s tough instructor in Challenge to destiny in 1982, a few years after winning an Emmy for his role as the violinist in the famous miniseries Property, died this Friday morning. He was 87 years old.

Gossett’s family announced his death in a statement, writing: “We are deeply saddened to confirm that our beloved father passed away this morning. We would like to thank everyone for their condolences at this time. Please respect the family’s privacy during this difficult time.”

In Challenge to destiny,Sergeant Gossett. Emil Foley memorably brought Richard Gere’s character to the point of nearly collapsing in a Navy flight school.

Gossett was the first black man to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for that role.