The entertainment world is in mourning following the passing of Ron Simons, an actor who rose to prominence as a formidable producer in both the screen and stage arenas. Simons, whose work earned him four Tony Awards and multiple film selections at the Sundance Film Festival, passed away at the age of 63.
News of his death was confirmed by SimonSays Entertainment, his New York-based production company. The company released a heartfelt statement on Facebook saying, “It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of our beloved, blessed, and highly favoured friend, Ronald Keith Simons.” While the announcement was poignant, it offered no specifics regarding the cause of his passing.
Ron Simons made a considerable mark on Broadway and beyond, with a career that highlighted his keen eye for talent and storytelling. He was the genius producer behind several Broadway hits that received critical acclaim and numerous accolades. Simons achieved Tony Award victories for productions such as “Porgy and Bess,” starring Norm Lewis and Audra McDonald; “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder” with Jefferson Mays; “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike,” featuring Sigourney Weaver; and “Jitney,” starring John Douglas Thompson.
Apart from his Tony-winning productions, Simons was involved in other notable Broadway works. He co-produced “Hughie” with Forest Whitaker, “The Gin Game” starring Cicely Tyson and James Earl Jones, “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations,” and an all-Black production of “A Streetcar Named Desire.” He also played a vital role in reviving the iconic play “for colored girls who have considered suicide/when the rainbow is enuf” and promoting the original work “Thoughts of a Colored Man.”
Simons was an advocate for diversity in the arts, which was palpably reflected in his projects. The years following George Floyd’s death saw heightened conversations about race and representation in America, extending to Broadway. Ron Simons was notably content with these developments. In 2022, he remarked on the diverse representation witnessed at the Tony Awards.
. “I can guarantee you I have not seen this many people of colour represented across all categories of the Tony Awards,” he expressed in an interview with The Associated Press. “I was so uplifted and impressed by that.”
Simons’ influence wasn’t confined to the stage but extended into the realm of film production as well. His filmography includes impactful titles such as “Night Catches Us,” featuring Kerry Washington, Anthony Mackie, and Wendell Pierce. Furthermore, he produced “Gun Hill Road” with Esai Morales and Judy Reyes, “Blue Caprice” starring Isaiah Washington and Tequan Richmond, and “Mother of George” with Danai Gurira. These films consistently garnered critical acclaim, with some making it to the prestigious Sundance Film Festival.
Ron Simons’ visionary work did not go unnoticed within the community and among his peers. Throughout his illustrious career, he was hailed for fostering projects that not only entertained but also provoked thought and showcased diverse voices. His commitment to uplifting underrepresented talent and stories carved out a special place for him in the history of American theatre and film.
The legacy he leaves behind is one of excellence and advocacy. Whether through the groundbreaking representation on stage or the nuanced narratives on screen, Ron Simons’ contributions have undeniably enriched the cultural landscape. His passion for the arts and his tireless effort in presenting stories that mattered will continue to inspire future generations of artists and producers.
As the news of his passing ripples through the entertainment industry, tributes have been pouring in from colleagues, actors, and fans alike, all mourning the loss of a brilliant mind and a warm-hearted individual. Ron Simons’ life and work will undoubtedly be remembered with great respect and admiration, serving as a benchmark for future generations.
In these somber times, the arts community reflects on the indelible marks left by an outstanding producer, paying homage to a man whose contributions will continue to resonate.
