Yaphet Kotto — the Black actor who portrayed one of the most beloved James Bond villains — has died at the age of 81. Kotto’s wife, Tessie Sinahon, first announced his death in a loving Facebook post that was shared to his public page on Monday, March 15.
“I’m saddened and still in shocked of the passing of my husband Yaphet of 24 years. He died last night around 10:30pm Philippine time,” Sinahon wrote, noting the actor still had a lot of plans, including offers for movie roles with Tom Cruise, in the G.I. Joe Franchise and more. She went on to praise her life partner.