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Judy Pace, the pioneering actress known for her roles in "Brian's Song" and several major 1970s films, died peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Her daughters, Shawn and Julia Pace Mitchell, confirmed the news to the media on Sunday. The 83-year-old actress was surrounded by her family in Marina Del Rey at the time of her passing.
Judy Pace began her career as a trailblazing model, becoming the youngest model for the Ebony Fashion Fair in 1961.
However, she eventually transitioned into acting and became a prominent figure in the "Blaxploitation" film era.
Her talent earned her an NAACP Image Award for Best Actress for her performance as Pat Walters in the ABC drama series The Young Lawyers.
During the 1960s and 1970s, Judy Pace appeared in many of the most popular television shows of the era. Her extensive credits included guest spots on Batman, I Spy, Bewitched, The Mod Squad, and Tarzan.
She also made history as the first Black actress to appear in a villainous role on the soap opera Days of Our Lives.
One of her most memorable performances came in the 1971 television movie Brian’s Song, where she played Joy Piccolo.
After all crritics and audiences praised the film for its emotional depth and its depiction of interracial friendship.
Judy Pace’s presence on screen helped break down racial barriers in the entertainment industry and paved the way for future generations of Black actors.
