Renauld White, a fashion model and soap opera actor, passed away at the age of 80 while under hospice care at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York on June 26th. His friend, fashion designer Jeffrey Banks, confirmed the news on Instagram, expressing his sadness at the loss of a dear friend and work colleague. White was known for his distinguished career in the fashion industry, breaking barriers as the second Black model to appear on the cover of GQ magazine in November 1979.
Throughout his career, White advocated for greater representation of people of color within the fashion industry. He was recognized for his work as a model for top designers such as Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and Donna Karan, as well as for major fashion houses including Yves Saint Laurent, Versace, and Armani. White’s impact extended beyond the runway, with campaigns for brands like Macy’s, Black Tie cologne, Arrow Shirts, and Vitalis. His efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in the industry have left a lasting legacy.
In addition to his work as a fashion model, White was also known for his role as William Reynolds on the long-running CBS soap opera Guiding Light, which aired from 1952 to 2009. Despite his retirement from acting and modeling, he made a brief return in 2023 to appear in an ad campaign for Dolce & Gabbana, shot by renowned photographer Steven Meisel. White’s contributions as both a model and actor have influenced the representation of people of color in the entertainment industry and beyond.
During a 2011 interview, White reflected on his efforts to challenge the establishment and promote diversity within the modeling industry. He recounted confronting Wilhelmina Models, a modeling agency, to push for more Black male representation. White’s advocacy for change and progress in the industry was met with resistance initially, but ultimately led to a shift in attitudes and practices. His fearless approach to addressing racial disparities paved the way for greater inclusivity and representation in the fashion world.
Renauld White’s impact on the fashion industry and entertainment world was far-reaching, as he broke barriers, challenged norms, and advocated for diversity throughout his career. His dedication to promoting greater representation of people of color in modeling and acting has left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire change in the industry today. White’s memory will be cherished by those who knew him, as a trailblazer and visionary who made a significant impact on the world of fashion and entertainment.
