John Witherspoon the beloved American actor and comedian who made the world laugh in movies and TV series has passed on at 77.
The late Witherspoon is best known for his role as Ice Cube’s dad in the 1990s comedy trilogy Friday and his role as Pops in the long-running sitcom The Wayans Bros.
He also starred in the sitcoms The Boondocks and Boomerang as well as in the movies House Party and Soul Plane.
According to Deadline, Witherspoon died on Wednesday at his home in Sherman Oaks.
His family described him as a legend in the entertainment industry, and a father figure to all who watched him over the years.
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
Witherspoon is survived by his wife Angela, and his sons JD and Alexander.
The family did not give further information surrounding Witherspoon’s death, but that did not stop celebrities who worked with him from sharing their messages of condolences.
My dad, my grandpa, my comedic inspiration! I love you Spoons! Rest In Paradise, King pic.twitter.com/U6GsNrrKXF
— Regina King (@ReginaKing) October 30, 2019
I’m devastated over the passing of John Witherspoon. Life won’t be as funny without him. pic.twitter.com/gtmiZiEppP
— Ice Cube (@icecube) October 30, 2019
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. ?? pic.twitter.com/PqO0nysZTj
— Jackée Harry (@JackeeHarry) October 30, 2019
#MySleeptweet RIP John Witherspoon pic.twitter.com/IuwNLyIpuf
— Isaiah Washington (@IWashington) October 30, 2019
? 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 pic.twitter.com/efSqqw6BHJ— Arsenio Hall (@ArsenioHall) October 30, 2019
