Obituary – Death – Cause of death News :

Toni Vaz, Trailblazing Stunt Performer and NAACP Image Awards Founder, Passes Away at 101

The entertainment industry has lost a true trailblazer with the passing of Toni Vaz at the age of 101. Known for her work as a stunt performer, actress, and activist, Vaz made a lasting impact on Hollywood throughout her career. She was also the visionary behind the creation of the NAACP Image Awards, which has become a prestigious event honoring Black talent in the industry.

Vaz passed away on October 4 at the Motion Picture & Television Fund assisted living facility in Woodland Hills, where she had been a longtime resident. Her legacy as a pioneer in the industry extends beyond her acting roles and stuntwork, as she sought to encourage studios and producers to hire and honor a wider range of talent.

Born to parents from Barbados, Vaz grew up in New York City in the 1950s and went on to make her mark in Hollywood. She became the first Black stuntwoman in the industry and doubled for stars like Cicely Tyson on projects like “Mission: Impossible.” Vaz’s impact on the industry was recognized in 2021 when she was credited with founding the NAACP Image Awards at the 52nd ceremony.

In addition to her contributions to the entertainment world, Vaz remained active in various MPTF Studios productions and events. Her story was told by Angela Bassett at the “Reel Stories, Real Lives” event in 2020, showcasing the lasting impact she had on those around her.

Toni Vaz leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of talent in Hollywood. She is survived by her nephew, niece, grand nieces, grand nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and godsons. Her impact on the industry and commitment to diversity and inclusion will always be remembered.

Who was Toni Vaz and what were her contributions to the entertainment industry?

Toni Vaz was a trailblazing stunt performer, actress, and activist who founded the NAACP Image Awards. She passed away at the age of 101 in Woodland Hills, where she was a resident at the Motion Picture & Television Fund assisted living facility.

How did Toni Vaz impact diversity in Hollywood?

Toni Vaz’s acting roles and stuntwork, which included doubling for stars like Cicely Tyson, led her to found the NAACP Image Awards. These awards aimed to honor her peers and encourage studios and producers to hire and recognize a wider range of talent in the industry.

When and where was the first NAACP Image Awards ceremony held?

The first NAACP Image Awards ceremony took place on August 13, 1967, at the International Ballroom of the Beverly Hills Hotel.

When was Toni Vaz officially credited with founding the NAACP Image Awards?

Toni Vaz was officially credited with founding the NAACP Image Awards in 2021, during the 52nd ceremony of the awards. She was honored at this event, with “Black-ish” star Anthony Anderson introducing her.

What were some of Toni Vaz’s early film roles?

Toni Vaz’s first film role was as an extra in 1959’s “Tarzan the Ape Man,” where she appeared opposite MGM’s mascot, Leo the Lion. She also appeared in films such as “Anna Lucasta” and “The Singing Nun,” where she doubled for star Juanita Moore.

What was Toni Vaz’s role in the film industry as a stuntwoman?

Toni Vaz became the first Black stuntwoman in Hollywood and stood in for Cicely Tyson on the TV show “Mission: Impossible.” She paved the way for other Black stunt performers in the industry.

How was Toni Vaz honored in the entertainment industry before her passing?

In 2020, Toni Vaz was featured in MPTF’s “Reel Stories, Real Lives” event, where her story was shared by Oscar nominee and NAACP Image Award recipient Angela Bassett. She also participated in various MPTF Studios productions throughout her career.

Who are Toni Vaz’s surviving family members?

Toni Vaz is survived by her nephew, Errol Reed, her niece, Janice Powell-Bowen, and several grand nieces, grand nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and godsons.

What is the legacy of Toni Vaz in the entertainment industry?

Toni Vaz’s legacy in the entertainment industry includes her groundbreaking work as a stunt performer, actress, and activist. She made significant contributions to promoting diversity and representation in Hollywood through the creation of the NAACP Image Awards.

Sources: TheWrap

I recently came across the incredible story of Toni Vaz, a trailblazing actress and stuntwoman who made a name for herself in Hollywood. She broke barriers as the first Black stuntwoman in the industry and even had the opportunity to stand in for the legendary Cicely Tyson on “Mission: Impossible.” Can you imagine the courage and skill it took to pave the way for others in such a male-dominated field?

In 2020, Vaz’s remarkable journey was highlighted at the MPTF’s “Reel Stories, Real Lives” event, where her story was shared by none other than the talented Angela Bassett. It’s inspiring to see how Vaz’s legacy continues to be celebrated and honored by her peers and fans alike. Her contributions to the entertainment industry are truly invaluable and have left a lasting impact on generations to come.

Despite her passing, Vaz remained active in the MPTF Studios community, participating in various productions and even being featured in an episode of “Behind the Silver Screen” dedicated to her illustrious career. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to excellence are qualities that will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of working with her.

Toni Vaz leaves behind a loving family, including her nephew Errol Reed, niece Janice Powell-Bowen, as well as several grand nieces, grand nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and godsons. The support and love of her family undoubtedly played a significant role in Vaz’s success and her ability to overcome the many challenges she faced throughout her career.

As we mourn the loss of this remarkable woman, let us also celebrate the life she lived and the legacy she leaves behind. Toni Vaz may no longer be with us, but her spirit and her contributions to the entertainment industry will continue to inspire and uplift all who have the privilege of knowing her story. Rest in peace, Toni Vaz, a true pioneer and icon in Hollywood.

(Source: TheWrap)