The arts and entertainment community is mourning the death of veteran actor and comedian, Henry Rodney, who passed away yesterday following hospitalisation at the Brookdale University Hospital and Medical Centre in Brooklyn, NY, USA.
In a statement, yesterday afternoon, the Rodney family said that the 63-year-old actor died at around 1:14 pm.
“We thank you for your continued prayers, support and well wishes. Your understanding and space is truly appreciated at this time as we process this loss as a family unit and will update you as time passes. We covet your prayers in this time,” daughter of the late actor, Tchaiko Rodney, said.
Rodney had been battling a mystery illness since 2015 and in 2016 travelled to the United States for specialised tests. He had made a recovery but prior to his death was once again hospitalised.
The actor who was famous for his role as ‘Franklyn’ in one of Guyana’s biggest sitcoms, “Agree to Disagree”, was admired for his onstage presence and the way in which he was able to engage his audience.
Rodney is also known for his performances in popular shows, “Nothing to Laugh About” and the “Link Show”. He also made appearances in films and plays, such as Paloma Mohamed’s “Jezebel”, “Guiana 1838”, “Thengar”, “Rebellion”, “Jezebel” – 1, 2 and 2 and a half, ‘Till ah Find a Place’ – 1, 2 and 3, and “Anybody see Brenda?”
Actor, Lyndon Jones, who shared the screen with Rodney in “Agree to Disagree” where he played the character of ‘Jumbie’, and also shared the theatrical stage with the late actor in a number of plays, said he was still coming to terms with Rodney’s passing.
“He was the best we ever had in this country in terms of comedy and acting. His talent for being able to retain his lines – I haven’t seen any other. He was really great. He did excellent in `Agree to Disagree’… as well as the other plays at the National Cultural Centre. He could have played any role and excel in it,” Jones said of Rodney.
“… We had a very close relationship and I always tried to emulate most of the things he was involved in,” Jones added.
