(NEXSTAR) – Renauld White, a pioneering figure in the modeling industry who appeared on “Guiding Light” in the 1980s, died Wednesday. He was 80 years old.
News of White’s passing was first confirmed to Women’s Wear Daily by friend and fashion designer Jeffrey Banks. Banks did not reveal a cause of death, but told WWD that White was under hospice care at a hospital in New York City when he died.
“It is with tremendous sadness that I report that my dearest friend and work colleague RENAULD WHITE, left us yesterday,” Banks wrote, in part, in an Instagram post shared after White’s passing.
“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 said.
White, who began his modeling career in the 1960s, went on to appear on runways for collections by Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren and Bill Blass, at a time when Black models weren’t as well represented in the industry, according to WWD. White also said he urged executives at Wilhemina Models to give more opportunities to Black male models, the outlet reported.
White himself was also the second Black male model to grace the cover of GQ magazine, for a 1979 issue. Urs Althaus was the first, WWD reported.
Ray Volant, the founder of the Bella Agency modeling agency, remembered White as a "trailblazing" figure in the industry.
"We were so honored to have represented Renauld at Bella Agency New York over the past 10 years," Volant said. "He will be truly missed in the fashion world but not forgotten for all the trailblazing moments he accomplished. 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."
In addition to modeling, Renauld played William Reynolds on “Guiding Light” between 1986 and 1987. His other screen credits include roles in the 2014 made-for-TV film “Gun Hill” and the 2017 slasher film “Central Park,” according to IMDb.
An obituary posted by a funeral home in White’s hometown of Newark, New Jersey, also claimed he appeared on “One Life to Live” and “General Hospital.”
“Your contribution to the fashion industry will continue to inspire and empower future generations of models,” reads the obituary. “Your unique style, talent, and passion will be sorely missed, but your influence will continue to shape the industry for years to come.”
