This beloved actor died in his Los Angeles home late Tuesday night, surrounded by his family and loved ones. Best known for his work in Wayan Bros and Friday movies, he has been called a comic inspiration to some of the funniest people in Hollywood.
John Witherspoon was 77 at his time of passing, though no cause of death has been released at this time. The comedic genius is being mourned all over Twitter by fans and costars alike.
While it’s not what he is best known for, John started his career in the 1970s working alongside some of the best comedians around, showing up on shows like “Barnaby Jones” and “The Richard Pryor Show”.
That’s not what most people remember Witherspoon from, however. Instead, they probably know him from his role as ‘Pops’ in the “Friday” movie and its two sequels. Witherspoon played Ice Cube’s father, a grumpy man who loved his son but made it difficult for him.
He was also the father in “The Wayans Bros.” television series and voiced the grandfather in “The Boondocks”, a popular animated show from Cartoon Network.
Witherspoon also had roles in “Vampire in Brooklyn”, “Boomerang”, and “The Tracy Morgan Show”. He was a regular on “The Late Show with David Letterman”.
Fans and costars alike have taken to social media today to express their deep sadness at losing this comedic genius. His family first shared the news on his official Twitter page, sending a message from the whole clan.
“…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.” They shared.
Ice Cube shared a picture with him and Witherspoon sharing his loss. “I’m devastated over the passing of John Witherspoon. Life won’t be as funny without him.”
Regina King, who worked with Witherspoon on several different projects, called him her “comedic inspiration” in a tweet today.
Witherspoon’s son, DJ, shared that he is sad and mourning, but also happy for “all the great times we had together … he was my best friend & my idol.”
It’s clear that Witherspoon touched many lives in his long and impressive career. He is survived by his wife, Angela, and his sons, Alexander and JD.
