Howard E. Rollins Jr. was a talented actor who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Best known for his acclaimed performance as Coalhouse Walker Jr. in the 1981 film adaptation of "Ragtime," Rollins' career spanned both the big and small screens, earning him critical acclaim and numerous award nominations. Despite facing personal challenges, Rollins remained dedicated to his craft, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.

Honoring a Pioneering Performer

From Baltimore to the Big Screen

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, on October 17, 1950, Howard E. Rollins Jr. was the youngest of four children born to Howard Ellsworth Rollins and Ruth. His father worked in the steel industry, while his mother was a housekeeper, instilling in Rollins a strong work ethic from a young age. After graduating from Northern High School in 1968, Rollins pursued his passion for acting, enrolling at Towson University to study theater. However, his stay at Towson was short-lived, as he soon left to take on the role of Slick in the PBS soap opera "Our Street."

Breakout Success in "Ragtime"

Rollins' big break came in 1981 when he landed the role of Coalhouse Walker Jr. in the film adaptation of E.L. Doctorow's acclaimed novel "Ragtime." His powerful performance in the movie earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, solidifying his status as a rising star in the industry. The role not only showcased Rollins' acting prowess but also his ability to bring depth and nuance to complex characters.

Acclaimed Television Roles

Following the success of "Ragtime," Rollins continued to captivate audiences with his versatile acting skills. In 1983, he was nominated for a Daytime Emmy for his role on the soap opera "Another World." That same year, he portrayed civil rights leader Medgar Evers in the television movie "For Us the Living: The Medgar Evers Story," further demonstrating his range and commitment to portraying significant historical figures.

Navigating Personal Challenges

Despite his professional triumphs, Rollins faced personal struggles during his career. He battled with alcohol and drug addiction, leading to several arrests and, ultimately, his dismissal from the television series "In the Heat of the Night" in the late 1980s. However, Rollins was able to regain his sobriety and work to reestablish his career, even appearing in the 1996 film "Drunks," which explored the themes of addiction and recovery.

A Tragic Ending

Tragically, Rollins' life was cut short when he was diagnosed with AIDS in 1996. Just six weeks later, on December 6, 1996, he passed away at the age of 46 due to lymphoma-related complications. His funeral was held in his hometown of Baltimore, and he was laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery. In the years since his passing, Rollins has been honored with a wax statue at the Senator Theater in Baltimore and inducted into the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum, ensuring that his legacy continues to be celebrated and remembered.