Max Robinson (May 1, 1939 – December 20, 1988)
Robinson became the first black national news anchor in America as the co-anchor of ABC Nightly News. He succumbed to AIDS-related complications at 49.
Howard Rollins (October 17, 1950 – December 8, 1996)
Rollins made a name for himself in memorable roles such as Coalhouse Walker, Jr. in the 1981 film Ragtime. After struggling with substance abuse, Rollins died of AIDS-related lymphoma at 46.
Sylvester James (September 6, 1947 – December 16, 1988)
Better known simply as Sylvester, this disco star released the dance classic “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” in 1978. He passed away due to complications from AIDS at 41.