Remembering Judy Pace: A Trailblazer in Film and Television

Judy Pace, a pioneering actress and model known for her significant contributions to film and television, has passed away at the age of 83. Her daughters, Shawn Pace Mitchell and Julia Pace Mitchell, confirmed that she "died peacefully in her sleep" on March 11, 2026, while visiting family in Marina del Rey, California. Born on June 15, 1942, in Los Angeles, Pace began her career as a model, becoming the youngest participant in the Ebony Fashion Fair in 1961. She made history as the first Black woman contracted by Columbia Pictures, marking a significant milestone in Hollywood.

Brian’s Song Star Judy Pace DiesExpress TribuneDeadline Hollywood

Pace's acting career took off with her film debut in William Castle's 1963 Cold War spy film, *13 Frightened Girls*. Throughout the 1960s, she became a familiar face on television, appearing in popular series such as *I Spy*, *Batman*, *Bewitched*, *Days of Our Lives*, *The Mod Squad*, and *Peyton Place*. Her role as Vickie Fletcher in *Peyton Place* was particularly notable, as it showcased a complex character rarely afforded to Black women at the time.

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In 1971, Pace gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Linda Sayers, the wife of football legend Gale Sayers, in the acclaimed television film *Brian’s Song*. The film, which depicted the friendship between Sayers and his Chicago Bears teammate Brian Piccolo, became a critical success and remains one of television's most beloved sports dramas.

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Beyond her acting career, Judy Pace was deeply committed to philanthropy. In 1971, she co-founded the Kwanza Foundation with actress Nichelle Nichols, an organization aimed at supporting Black women in film and providing scholarships to minority students pursuing careers in the arts. This initiative reflected her dedication to opening doors for future generations of Black actresses and artists.

Judy Pace, Trailblazing Actress and ‘Brian’s Song’ Star, Dies at 83

Despite her accomplishments, Pace highlighted the challenges faced by Black actresses in Hollywood. She noted, “The hardest thing to do is to find any sort of movie role if you’re a Black actress. People don’t realize that.” This sentiment underscores the ongoing struggle for representation and opportunities within the entertainment industry.

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Pace's family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the NAACP in her honor. They expressed their gratitude for the support and love shown to her throughout her life and career.

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• “I think ‘Peyton Place’ is more honest in dealing with the sorts of problems people are really into,” — Judy Pace

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• “is to find any sort of movie role if you’re a Black actress. People don’t realize that. They talk about Sidney Poitier and Jim Brown — but where are the actresses? Let’s face it. If it weren’t for TV, all the young Black actresses in Hollywood would be unemployed.” — Judy Pace

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Judy Pace leaves behind a legacy of resilience, talent, and trailblazing achievements that opened doors for generations of Black actresses in Hollywood. She is survived by her daughters, grandson Stephen Lamar Hightower III, son-in-law Otto Strong, and many cherished family members and friends. Her contributions to the arts and her advocacy for representation will be remembered as integral parts of her enduring legacy.

Judy Pace, Trailblazing Actress and Blaxploitation Star, Dies at 83