Jimmy Cliff, the renowned Jamaican reggae musician and actor, has died at the age of 81. His family announced that he passed away due to a seizure followed by pneumonia. The news was shared on his official social media accounts.

Cliff's wife, Latifa Chambers, expressed gratitude for the support from family, friends, and fans. "To all his fans around the world, please know that your support was his strength throughout his whole career. He really appreciated each and every fan for their love," she wrote.

Born James Chambers in Saint James, Jamaica, Cliff was a pivotal figure in the reggae movement that emerged in the 1960s. He was known for his powerful tenor voice and his ability to craft catchy, meaningful lyrics. Cliff's music often conveyed themes of joy, resilience, and social justice.

He gained international fame with songs such as "Many Rivers to Cross," "You Can Get It If You Really Want," and "Vietnam." Cliff also starred in the influential film "The Harder They Come," which was released in 1972. The film, which tells the story of an aspiring reggae musician who turns to crime, is credited with bringing reggae music to a global audience.

In a 2022 interview, Cliff reflected on the film's impact, stating, "Ivanhoe was a real-life character for Jamaicans. When I was a little boy, I used to hear about him as being a bad man. A real bad man." He noted that the film's portrayal of the character was meant to present an anti-hero narrative.

Despite a slow start at the box office, "The Harder They Come" has since become a cultural landmark, with its soundtrack hailed as one of the greatest in music history. Cliff's music career flourished alongside the film's success, and he briefly rivaled Bob Marley as the most prominent reggae artist.

Cliff's discography includes hits like "Sitting in Limbo" and the uplifting "Wonderful World, Beautiful People." He was nominated for seven Grammy Awards, winning twice for Best Reggae Album. His albums include "Cliff Hanger" and "Rebirth," the latter released in 2012 and regarded as a significant comeback.

Throughout his career, Cliff collaborated with various artists, including the Rolling Stones, Wyclef Jean, and Annie Lennox. His music has been embraced by many, with notable covers by Bruce Springsteen and John Lennon.

In addition to his music, Cliff was recognized for his contributions to the arts. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. Cliff's influence extended beyond music; his songs were used in political movements, such as the Sandinista campaign in Nicaragua.

Cliff's legacy as a pioneer of reggae music and a cultural icon will continue to resonate with fans around the world. His contributions to music and film have left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring future generations of artists.