So I just learned that Andre Braugher passed away.
He's best known for his work on Homicide, his supporting role in Glory, and Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
I know him best from the speech he delivered at the end of one particularly powerful episode, when another character comes out as bisexual to her family and is later asked not to come to their family game night after the fallout.
When the episode aired, I was just accepting that being queer did not make me a tragedy. This episode was a mix of my dreams and my nightmares.
And Braugher's speech was the perfect ending. A recognition of the value and importance of speaking your truth and being yourself openly, even if it does cost you. And how those who came before you did so in order to honor their truth and, later, yours.
That hug at the end felt like it was one for every person who has ever been in that position. And Braugher did it perfectly.
It's not even the end of the year and we already lost 2 great actors from the funniest shows. May they both rest in peace and let it be known that they were one of the best actors of their shows.
Can't believe Andre Braugher, the legend who played Raymond Holt, captain of NYPD in b99 passed away. Just got this news and I am in tears. Gone too soon. Rip ❤ you made b99 legendary. It won't be the same without him.
In the recent years when everything seemed like a dumpster fire and we were getting bad news every day, I could always count in Brooklyn Nine Nine. It was my happy place. It could always make me laugh. It was primarily a comedy but could also give us solemn and touching moments like the one above.
Of course, Andre Braugher was a big part of that. I will miss him.