Scoey Mitchell Cause of Death Tragic: ‘Barefoot in the Park’ Comedian Was 92
Scoey Mitchell, a trailblazing Black comedian popularly known for his role in Neil Simon's "Barefoot in the Park," has passed away at the age of 92; what was his cause of death?
The comedian died of kidney faliure at a Torrace, California health care facility over the weekend
The actor's brother, jazz pianist Billy Mitchell, took to social media to confirm his brother's death, saying he had a successful career during the 70s and 80s.
"He sacrificed much in the struggle to get blacks behind the camera, into production and into positions that are taken for granted today," he wrote on Facebook.
The musician added that it's important for other people to remember those who opened up the doors for so many.
According to Variety, the actor started his career by performing comedy acts in nightclubs. One of his first gigs was on "The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour," which skyrocketed his journey to fame, leading him to appear in several TV shows.
He appeared on shows to perform his acts such as "The Ed Sullivan Show," "The Carol Burnett Show," "The Tonight Show," and many more.
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Mitchell later made a transition into acting as he had a role on the ABC TV series "What's It All About, World?"
His most prominent role to date would be on the short-lived ABC show "Barefoot in the Park" where he starred as attorney Paul Bratter.
The TV series was adapted from the Neil Simon play and it was the first time since the 50s to have a predominantly Black cast members.
However, Mitchell's role didn't last long as there was reportedly a tension between the actor and the show's white writers.
Per the Washington Post, writers for the sitcom consulted with members of the Watts drama workshop to gather information about "the relationship Black people have when they are alone, without white people around."
The actor didn't agree, saying Black writers should've been hired to work on the show, not just consulted.
In addition to his long list of TV credits, he starred as a guest star on "The Odd Couple," as well as other shows as an actor like "Rhoda," "Voyage of the Yes," "Cops," and "Cindy."
He only starred in one film, playing the small role in Richard Pryor's "Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling."
