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Toni Vaz: Actress, Activist, and NAACP Image Awards Founder

At the impressive age of 101, Toni Vaz, an actor and activist who made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, passed away on October 4 in Woodland Hills, California. Vaz, a trailblazer in her own right, was best known for creating the prestigious NAACP Image Awards, a ceremony that celebrates and recognizes people of color in the entertainment industry.

Born to immigrant parents from Barbados, Vaz grew up in New York City in the 1950s, where her love for the performing arts blossomed. Despite her mother’s initial reluctance to let her watch movies, Vaz pursued her dreams and eventually found herself in Hollywood, where she landed her first on-screen role as an extra in the 1959 film “Tarzan, the Ape Man.”

Her talent and determination led her to appear in various films and TV shows, eventually transitioning into stunt work, a groundbreaking move for a Black woman in the industry. Vaz made history as a stunt double for the legendary Cicely Tyson on the iconic TV series “Mission: Impossible,” where she performed daring stunts that took her around the globe.

However, Vaz’s most enduring legacy lies in her creation of the NAACP Image Awards in 1967. Determined to honor her peers and promote diversity in Hollywood, Vaz established the awards ceremony to encourage studios and producers to hire a more inclusive range of talent. The first ceremony took place at the prestigious Beverly Hills Hotel’s International Ballroom, marking a significant moment in entertainment history.

Throughout her long and illustrious career, Vaz remained an active member of the entertainment community, participating in various productions and events. Her impact on the industry was profound, as evidenced by her upcoming star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2025.

As we bid farewell to this iconic figure, Toni Vaz’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists and activists to come.

Who was Toni Vaz and What Were Her Contributions?

Toni Vaz was an actor and activist who made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. She is best known for creating the NAACP Image Awards, which aimed to honor people of color in the industry. Vaz passed away on Oct. 4 in Woodland Hills, Calif., at the age of 101. Her legacy lives on through her groundbreaking work and dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion in Hollywood.

Source: Variety

What Was Vaz’s Background and Early Career?

Vaz’s parents immigrated to the U.S. from Barbados, and she was raised in New York City in the 1950s. Despite her mother’s initial reluctance to let her watch movies, Vaz pursued her passion for acting and eventually moved to Hollywood. She made her on-screen debut as an extra in the 1959 film “Tarzan, the Ape Man,” where she shared a scene with MGM’s Leo the Lion.

Source: Variety

What Were Some of Vaz’s Career Highlights?

After her first on-screen appearance, Vaz went on to secure roles in films like “Anna Lucasta” and “The Singing Nun.” She later transitioned to stunt work, becoming the first Black woman to do so. Vaz performed stunts for Cicely Tyson on the TV series “Mission: Impossible,” showcasing her daring skills and traveling the world in the process.

Source: Variety

How Did Vaz Contribute to Diversity in the Industry?

Driven by her desire to create opportunities for people of color, Vaz founded the NAACP Image Awards. The awards ceremony aimed to recognize talented individuals from diverse backgrounds and encourage studios to hire a wider range of talent. The inaugural ceremony took place on Aug. 13, 1967, at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

Source: Variety

What Was Vaz’s Legacy and Impact on the Industry?

Vaz’s impact on the entertainment industry extended beyond her acting and stunt work. She remained active in her later years, participating in various productions at the Motion Picture & Television Fund in Woodland Hills. Her story was featured in the MPTF’s Reel Stories, Real Lives event, with actress Angela Bassett narrating her journey. Vaz was also set to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2025, a testament to her lasting legacy.

Source: Variety

In conclusion, Toni Vaz was a trailblazing figure in the entertainment industry, known for her talent, activism, and dedication to promoting diversity. Her legacy lives on through the NAACP Image Awards and her impact on future generations of performers and activists. She will be remembered as a pioneer who paved the way for greater representation and inclusion in Hollywood.