Final answer:
Sidney Poitier demonstrated that African Americans could portray professionals, romantic leads, and heroes in the film industry.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sidney Poitier was the first breakthrough actor who demonstrated that an African American could portray professionals, romantic leads, and heroes. In the film industry, Poitier challenged racial stereotypes and paved the way for diverse representation on screen. For example, in the 1967 film 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner,' he played a professional character who was a doctor and in the 1963 film 'Lilies of the Field,' he portrayed a handyman who becomes a hero. These roles showcased the talent and versatility of African American actors in lead roles.
Learn more about African American representation in the film industry