Singer, Actor and Activist Harry Belafonte Passes Away at 96

Singer, civil rights activist and entertainer Harry Belafonte has died. He 96.

Belafonte died Tuesday morning of congestive heart failure at his New York home with his wife Pamela by his side, said his publicist Ken Sunshine.

Crowned the “King of Calypso,” the 1950s singer was known for hits such as “Banana Boat Song (Day-O)” and “Jamaica Farewell.”

He also had starring roles in “Carmen Jones,” “Island in the Sun” and “Odds Against Tomorrow.”

However, his contributions to activism are what truly made him an icon. A close friend the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Belafonte lent his voice and support to several political and social issues.  He financed the Freedom Rides, and played a key role in organizing the March on Washington. In addition to organizing and participating in protest marches and benefit concerts, the EGOT winner also campaigned against apartheid in South Africa, mobilized support for the fight against HIV/AIDS and advocated for prostate cancer.

Belefonte is survived by his wife Pamela, son David and daughters Adrienne, Shari and Gina — as well as two stepchildren and eight grandchildren.