77-year-old Friday’s actor John Witherspoon was found dead at his home by his family with the cause of death not yet being disclosed at the time of this writing.
As the grieving family announced after the tragic passing, they were left “in shock” after they discovered that “one of the hardest working men in show business” had passed away.
Paying tribute to the late comedian was his family, including sons J.D. and Alexander, and hundreds of high-profile figures.
“So… my Dad died today & honestly I’m not sure how to feel. I’m sad, but I’m also happy 4 all the great times we had together. We’d roast each other like homies more than Father & Son, and I really loved that about us,” J.D., who is also a comedian, wrote in his tribute.
“In all seriousness, I work as hard as I do thanks to seeing Him grind for literally 77 years of his life, and I’m damn proud to be his son.
“If I have even half the career & impact he has had on people I’ll be very happy. His legacy will live on through me, my family, his friends, and everyone else who was touched by him here on earth. He was my best friend & my Hero. I Love U Dad…I’ll miss u.”
John Witherspoon was born in 1942 and made it to the comedy scene after he started working as a stand-up comedian.
Since making his feature movie debut in The Jazz Singer back in 1980, the actor appeared in several popular films including Vampire in Brooklyn, The Wayans Bros, Boomerang, Hollywood Shuffle, Soul Plane, The Boondocks, The Meteor Man, Dr Doolittle 2, and Friday.
“I’m sad. Broken. Hurt.. yet extremely grateful to God that I got to spend 5 years of my life working with one of the funniest sweetest wisest humblest loving man. You were my tv dad and my mentor and my friend,” Marlon Wayans, who referred to John as his ‘second dad,’ wrote.
“I’m absolutely shattered at the news of my great friend John Witherspoon passing. May love surround his entire family and fan base – a comedy legend we’ll never forget,” Jackee Harry shared.
“This day began with such joy. And it’s ending with this heart wrenching news of John Witherspoon’s passing. One of our comic brothers. RIP,” comedian Arsenio Hall wrote in his tribute.
As for Regina King, the actress who portrayed John’s daughter in Friday, she said: “My dad, my grandpa, my comedic inspiration! I love you Spoons! Rest In Paradise, King.”
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