Cicely Tyson dead: Pioneering award winning Hollywood actress dies aged 96

President Barack Obama presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Cicely Tyson in 2016 [Photo: Courtesy]

Cicely Tyson, known for roles in Sounder and Autobiography Of Miss Jane Pittman, has died at the age of 96, her manager said. Cicely, a former fashion model, became known for playing strong African American characters over a glittering career spanning seven decades. The trailblazing actress won three Emmys, a SAG Award, a Tony and an honorary Academy Award.

Cicely died peacefully on Thursday, according to a statement. No cause of death was given. Larry Thompson, Tyson's manager, said: "I have managed Miss Tyson's career for over 40 years, and each year was a privilege and blessing. "Cicely thought of her new memoir as a Christmas tree decorated with all the ornaments of her personal and professional life. Today she placed the last ornament, a star, on top of the tree."