Vitals

Richard Roundtree as John Shaft, tough private detective

Ethiopia to Paris, Winter 1972

Film: Shaft in Africa
Release Date: June 20, 1973
Director: John Guillermin
Wardrobe Credit: Frank Balchus

WARNING! Spoilers ahead!

Background

Who’s the cat that won’t cop out when there’s danger all about? Shaft! (Right on.)

The groundbreaking role of private investigator John Shaft was originated across three films in the early 1970s by Richard Roundtree, who died three years ago today on October 24, 2023. After successful back-to-back installments set in Shaft’s native New York City, the character crossed the ocean for the bluntly titled 1973 sequel Shaft in Africa. Continue reading →