Renauld White was a barrier-breaking model who also starred on “Guiding Light” in the 1980s as William Reynolds.
- Died: June 26, 2024 (Who else died on June 26?)
- Details of death: Died at a New York City hospital at the age of 80.
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Renauld White’s legacy
White began modeling in the 1960s, while he was working as a clerk for Western Electric and attending night classes at Rutgers University. According to his own story of his rise to prominence, he approached Wilhelmina Models after being rejected by the storied Ford Modeling Agency. Suspecting his rejection might have been because he was Black in a time when there were few opportunities for models of color, he took an unusual tactic with Wilhelmina. He told them he was from the NAACP and was looking into their racial diversity. The surprising technique worked: He was hired the very next day.
White quickly became a sought-after model, appearing in advertisements and on magazine covers. He walked the runway in his first fashion show in 1970 for Bill Blass, and in 1979, he became the second Black male model to grace the cover of GQ, his predecessor two years prior. He also did covers for Essence and other magazines, and his many advertising campaigns included Vidal Sassoon, Smirnoff vodka, Macy’s, and Black Tie cologne.
White’s acting career began in 1986 with his first appearance in “Guiding Light” as William Reynolds. He played the role recurringly for several years. He also appeared in the TV movie “Gun Hill” and on the big screen in “Central Park.” White was a close friend to Aretha Franklin (1942–2018), and the two reportedly dated off and on.
White on his inspirations:
“I always loved Marlon Brando and Malcolm X. These men gave me hope that one day I could excel in my chosen field like they did.” — from a 2019 interview for Fashion By the Rules
Tributes to Renauld White
Full obituary: People
