Charles F. Porter, a promising college football player who shifted to acting and producing after a back injury and went on to star in ESPN's Wendell Scott: A Race Story, has passed away.
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His wife, Candice Tab-Porter, announced his Nov. 2 death after a long battle with cancer in a heartfelt post on social media.
"With a very heavy heart I wanted to share the passing of my husband Charles Frederick Porter," she wrote in part alongside a snapshot of herself with Charles and their two daughters. "I am honored to have been by his side for the incredible 18 years we had together and truly believe that God brought us to each other for a reason."
"This is a loss we will never fully recover from, but we will spend the rest of our lives honoring you and the beautiful legacy you leave behind. I love you forever and ever," Candice concluded.
Charles Porter was 47.
According to Deadline, the UK native played football for Duke. The promising defensive end's NFL hopes were derailed after a severe back injury. From there, Porter reinvented himself, shedding over 50 pounds and pursuing an acting career.
Porter found himself appearing in guest roles on shows like The Parkers, Close to Home, Without a Trace, Bones, and House through the 2000s.
Charles Porter Lands His Signature Acting Role
However, his biggest acting role came as the titular role in 2011's Wendell Scott: A Race Story. Porter starred as Wendell Scott, the first African-American to win a NASCAR Cup race back in 1963. He also headlined the 2006 horror film Nailed and appeared in Peppermint alongside Jennifer Garner in 2018.
Porter also had an impressive career as a producer. Just last year, he produced Finding Faith, which starred Paula Patton, Stephen Bishop, and Keith David. Porter even popped up in a small role in the Lifetime film.
Meanwhile, friends and fans shared their condolences following Porter's wife's announcement of his passing.
"Oh wow, Candace, this is so heartbreaking. Sending love, peace, and strength to you and your girls," Kourtney Kardashian wrote in the comments section on the post announcing Porter's death. "Oh, Candace, my heart breaks for you and the girls. Charles was such an incredible man," another comment read.
"So lucky to have been loved by you, Charles. Deeply grateful to God for blessing us with you,' another thoughtful onlooker wrote.
Porter leaves behind his wife, Candice, and two daughters, Juliette and Layla.
