His success paved the way for other black actors

10 Jan – Oprah Winfrey was revealed to have been working on a documentary for Hollywood legend Sidney Poitier prior to the actor's death last week.

According to Deadline, the documentary, produced by the said TV personality for Apple Original Films, had been in production for more than a year in secret, and is an in-depth look at Poitier's life and career.

Poitier's death was confirmed on 6 January, with a rep stating that he died at his home in Beverly Hills.

His engagement to a white woman drew gasps in "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" (1967)

During his lifetime, the actor became the first Black actor to win an Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in 1963's "Lilies of the Field".

Many of his most known films revolved around racial tensions, including "In the Heat of the Night", "To Sir, With Love", and "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?", with his success having opened more doors and opportunities for minority actors.

He was 94.

He was a beloved teacher in "To Sir, With Love" (1967)

The first black actor who won an Oscar, for his role in "Lilies of the Field" (1963)