On May 9, 1952, pioneering African American actor Canada Lee died in New York City at the age of 45. A former boxer turned acclaimed actor, Lee broke racial barriers on stage and screen during an era of intense segregation. He rose to prominence for his role in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1944 film Lifeboat, where his nuanced performance challenged stereotypes in Hollywood.

In the 1947 classic Body and Soul, Lee portrayed a former boxer battling illness—a role that showcased his emotional range and resonated deeply with audiences. Beyond acting, Lee was an outspoken advocate for civil rights and refused to play roles that demeaned Black people. His political activism drew the attention of the FBI and led to blacklisting during the McCarthy era, which contributed to the decline of his career and health. Despite these challenges, Canada Lee is remembered as a trailblazer who used art as a tool for dignity, justice, and change.