Thomas Jefferson Byrd Killed in Shooting in Atlanta

The Tony-nominated actor had worked with Spike Lee on "He Got Game," "Get on the Bus" and "Clockers". 

By: Oct. 05, 2020
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The Tony-nominated actor Thomas Jefferson Byrd was shot and killed in Atlanta on Saturday morning, October 3. He was 70 years old.

Byrd, who had received a Tony nomination for his performance as Toledo in the 2003 Broadway revival of Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, worked with Spike Lee on many projects including "He Got Game," "Get on the Bus" and "Clockers".

Lee paid tribute to the actor on social media:

I'm So Sad To Announce The Tragic Murder Of Our Beloved Brother Thomas Jefferson Byrd Last Night In Atlanta,Georgia. Tom Is My Guy,Here Below You See Him As The Frightening Character Errol Barnes In CLOCKERS. Brother Byrd Also Did His Thang In My Joints- CHI-RAQ,SWEET BLOOD OF JESUS, RED HOOK SUMMER,BAMBOOZLED,HE GOT GAME,GET ON THE BUS,GIRL 6 And CLOCKERS. May We All Wish Condolences And Blessings To His Family. Rest In Peace Brother Byrd.???????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

A post shared by Spike Lee (@officialspikelee) on

Byrd's death is currently under investigation.


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