Multi-talented personality Melvin Van Peebles is no more. The God Father of Black Cinema has passed away at the age of 89.
The actor, director and composer was best known for creating and acting in the film Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song. While his groundbreaking work re-defined cinemas, his personal life was kept away from media.
So, did Melvin have a wife at the time of his death? Was he ever married?
Melvin Van Peebles was married to Maria Marx
Melvin Van Peebles did not have a wife at the time of his death, but he was previously married to Maria Marx.
According to NBC, Maria Marx was a German-born actress and photographer. They got married in 1950 but divorced several years later. They share a son named Mario Van Peebles together.
The couple is also said to have lived in Mexico during the course of their marriage.
Melvin is survived by his children and grandchildren.
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Godfather of Black Cinema is no more
The news regarding Melvin’s demise was confirmed by his family, The Criterion Collection and Janus Films in a statement.
The Criterion Collection announced on Instagram that the actor passed away last night (September 22) at his home surrounded by family.
“In an unparalleled career distinguished by relentless innovation, boundless curiosity and spiritual empathy, Melvin Van Peebles made an indelible mark on the international cultural landscape through his films, novels, plays and music,” the statement read.
It further noted that his landmark film Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song will be screened at the New York Film Festival over the weekend during its 50th anniversary.
Tributes pour in for the late actor
Several celebrities and fans have taken to Twitter to remember the late actor. Here’s a couple…
American filmmaker Ava DuVernay tweeted, “You have to not let yourself believe you can’t. Do what you can do within the framework you have. And don’t look outside. Look inside.” ― the iconic artist, filmmaker, actor, playwright, novelist, composer and sage Melvin Van Peebles, who has gone home at the age of 89.”
Actor David Alan Grier wrote, “We’ve lost another lion, the true revolutionary, an artistic gangsta, cultural disrupter who forever changed the game Rest n Peace Melvin Van Peebles.”
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