John Witherspoon, an actor-comedian best his role in the “Friday”, “The Boondocks” and other hit films and television shows, died on Tuesday. He was 77.
His death was reported by The Associated Press, which cited his manager. No cause was given.
“It is with deepest sorrow that we can confirm our beloved husband and father, John Witherspoon, one of the hardest working men in show business, died today at his home in Sherman Oaks at the age of 77,” his family said in a statement.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Witherspoon kicked off his career as a stand-up comedian and made his television debut in the 1970s, appearing in shows including the detective series “Barnaby Jones.”
He was, arguably, best known for playing Ice Cube’s dad in the “Friday,” film series. The 1995 comedy and its sequels, “Next Friday” and “Friday After Next,” chronicle the trials of a man as he tries to make it through the day.
“He was a legend in the entertainment industry, and a father figure to all who watched him over the years,” read a statement on Twitter that was posted on his account. “We love you ‘POPS’ always & forever.”
It is with deep sadness we have to tweet this, but our husband & father John Witherspoon has passed away. He was a Legend in the entertainment industry, and a father figure to all who watched him over the years. We love you “POPS” always & forever.
– The Witherspoon Family pic.twitter.com/ov9P34kaMn
— John Witherspoon (@John_POPS_Spoon) October 30, 2019