(L to R) Sydney Poitier and Rod Steiger in 'In the Heat of the Night' (1967)

(L to R) Sydney Poitier and Rod Steiger in 'In the Heat of the Night' (1967)

Sneakers.’

Poitier began his acting career on Broadway in the late 1940’s before earning his first big screen role in the 1950 film, ‘A Raisin in the Sun,’ before winning his Oscar for playing Homer Smith in 1963’s ‘Lilies in the Field.’

But it was his role as police detective Virgil Tibbs in 1967’s Best Picture winner ‘In the Heat of the Night,’ opposite Oscar-winner The Organization.’

The actor would spend the next decade as a filmmaker after his directorial debut with ‘Ghost Dad.’

Poitier would return to acting full time in the late 80’s with a series of popular action films including the criminally underrated ‘David Strathairn, and River Phoenix.

He received an Honorary Academy Award in 2001 for “his extraordinary performances and unique presence on the screen and for representing the motion picture industry with dignity, style and intelligence throughout the world.” That was the same night Monster’s Ball,’ creating a groundbreaking night for the Academy. In his acceptance speech Washington said, “Forty years I’ve been chasing Sidney, they finally give it to me and what do they do? They give it to him the same night! I’ll always be chasing you Sidney. I will always be following in your footsteps. There is nothing I would rather do, sir.”

In 1995, Poitier received the Michelle and I send our love to his family and legion of fans.”

Poitier is survived by his six daughters including Beverly, Death Proof.’