Renowned recording industry insider Clarence Avant, affectionately known as the “Godfather of Black Entertainment”, passed away at his Los Angeles home on Sunday night according to family members. The reports of his passing were confirmed by Variety and The Hollywood Reporter though no cause of death was provided.
Avant’s family conveyed their sadness in a statement, acknowledging Avant’s significant contribution to the music, entertainment, sports, and political worlds through his revolutionary business leadership.
His death comes approximately a year and a half after his wife, philanthropist Jacqueline Avant, was tragically killed during a home invasion. Her assailant, Aariel Maynor, was subsequently arrested and found guilty of first-degree murder, receiving a sentence of 190 years to life imprisonment.
Avant was the subject of the 2019 Netflix documentary “The Black Godfather” and was renowned for managing numerous musical talents and advising artists and producers.
His legacy will be carried forward by his daughter Nicole and son Alexander. Avant’s death marks the loss of a monumental figure in the entertainment industry, and his significant contributions will continue to resonate for generations.