Obituary – Death – Cause of death News :

Toni Vaz: Hollywood’s Trailblazing Stuntwoman and Image Awards Founder

Toni Vaz, a trailblazer in Hollywood as one of the first Black stuntwomen, passed away at the age of 101 in Los Angeles. Throughout her career, she appeared in over 50 movies, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of Black performers. Her legacy extends beyond the silver screen, as she founded the N.A.A.C.P. Image Awards to recognize and celebrate the often overlooked work of Black writers and performers.

Ms. Vaz’s journey in Hollywood began in the 1950s when the idea of a Black stunt performer was virtually non-existent. She and her fellow Black stunt performers were often cast as extras, received no training, and faced unknown dangers on set. Despite the challenges, Ms. Vaz continued to push boundaries and support Black actresses like Eartha Kitt, Cicely Tyson, and Juanita Moore as they broke free from racially stereotyped roles.

Her impact extended beyond the screen as she joined the Hollywood branch of the N.A.A.C.P. in 1962, where she later proposed the idea of the Image Awards. The inaugural awards ceremony in 1967 honored television shows that had broken the color barrier, paving the way for future generations of Black artists to be recognized for their talents.

Despite facing discrimination and being underpaid for her work compared to her white counterparts, Ms. Vaz continued to advocate for change in Hollywood. Her dedication to reshaping the image of Black performers led to the growth and success of the Image Awards, which now honor a wide range of artists across various mediums.

Ms. Vaz’s remarkable journey from a model in New York to a pioneering stuntwoman and advocate for Black artists leaves a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry. Her contributions have not gone unnoticed, with honors such as the Image Awards’ Founder’s Award and a future star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Who was Toni Vaz?

Toni Vaz was a trailblazing Black stuntwoman in Hollywood, known for her appearances in over 50 movies. She also created the N.A.A.C.P. Image Awards to honor the work of Black writers and performers. She passed away on Oct. 4 in Los Angeles at the age of 101, due to congestive heart failure.

What were the challenges faced by Black stunt performers in the 1950s?

During the 1950s, the concept of a Black stunt performer was virtually non-existent. Black stuntwomen like Toni Vaz were often cast as extras, received no formal training, and were unaware of the potential dangers they might encounter on set until filming began.

What role did Toni Vaz play in supporting Black actresses in Hollywood?

Throughout her career, Toni Vaz played a crucial role in advocating for Black actresses such as Eartha Kitt, Cicely Tyson, and Juanita Moore to move beyond racially stereotyped roles. She helped pave the way for Black actresses to portray a wider range of characters in the industry.

How did Toni Vaz contribute to the creation of the N.A.A.C.P. Image Awards?

In 1967, Toni Vaz proposed the idea of an awards show that would recognize and celebrate the achievements of Black artists, similar to the Oscars. This led to the establishment of the Image Awards, which have since become a prestigious event honoring Black actors, writers, poets, and musicians.

What recognition did Toni Vaz receive for her contributions to the Image Awards?

Despite her pivotal role in creating the Image Awards, Toni Vaz was initially overlooked for credit as the program gained prominence. However, in 2021, she was finally acknowledged with the Image Awards’ Founder’s Award, recognizing her as the visionary behind the prestigious event.

How will Toni Vaz be honored posthumously?

In June, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce announced that Toni Vaz’s name will be added to the Walk of Fame next year, further recognizing her significant contributions to the entertainment industry and the advancement of Black representation in Hollywood.

Sources: New York Times