Neilson Barnard/Getty ImagesRenauld White, a pioneer for diversity in the modeling industry and actor on 'Guiding Light,' has died at the age of 80.and as a pioneer for diversity in the modeling industry, has died at age 80. , announcing that White died on June 26 while under hospice care at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. His cause of death was not disclosed.
Banks also shared the news on his Instagram on June 27."It is with tremendous sadness that I report that my dearest friend and work colleague RENAULD WHITE, left us yesterday," he wrote."Modeling for me from the very start of my career RENAULD was always the perfect gentleman and a great ambassador for my brand. When first introduced to my Mother she claimed instantly that he was my 'older brother.' I only wished that was so.
He continued:"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. Good night sweet Prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest."as well. "We were so honored to have represented Renauld at Bella Agency New York over the past 10 years.
White began his modeling career in the 1960s and worked with a slew of designers, including Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren and Donna Karan. He also worked with major fashion houses, including Yves Saint Laurent, Versace, Armani and Cerutti. In November 1979, White graced the cover of WWD, Throughout his modeling career, White became an advocate for"greater diversity on designer runways.
"I wanted to bring about change. I really confronted the establishment about why there were not more Black male images," White said in a 2011 interview, according to ."At first, I thought I was going to get thrown in jail and beaten up because of my approach. But then they realized that they were wrong and that they were behind society and behind the times, and that they had to listen to me.”in the 1980s.