Renauld White, an actor and trailblazing model whose career spanned decades, had died, according to his modeling agency. He was 80. "We were so honored to have represented Renauld at Bella Agency New York over the past 10 years.
He will be truly missed in the fashion world but not forgotten for all the trailblazing moments he accomplished," Ray Volant, founder of Bella Agency, told CNN in a statement. "Renauld's passion and perseverance was an inspiration for many. He helped young models find their place in the industry.
He was one of a kind." Designer Jeffrey Banks, a longtime friend of White's, also confirmed the news to Women's Wear Daily, saying that White died while in hospice care at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. A cause of death was not provided.
Banks also wrote a tribute to White on his Instagram page, calling White "my dearest friend and work colleague." "I shall miss our talks and times together, but will always remember the barriers you broke in the fashion industry and the love you shared as a trusted friend," Banks wrote. CNN has reached out to Banks for comment.
White, who graced the covers of Essence, Ebony and others during his long career, became the first African-American male model and the second Black male model to appear on the cover of GQ in November 1979. White has a few credits listed on his IMDb page, including his two-year stint on "The Guiding Light," but an obituary posted to the Whigham Funeral Home website also refers to roles on "Genera.