Our hearts are so heavy.
Comedian and actor John Witherspoon has passed away Tuesday in his Sherman Oaks home.
The Witherspoon Family released a statement to deliver the heartbreaking news.
“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,” Witherspoon’s family said in a statement to Deadline. “He is survived by his wife Angela, and his sons JD, Alexander, and a large family. We are all in shock, please give us a minute for a moment in privacy and we will celebrate his life and his work together. John used to say ‘I’m no big deal’, but he was huge deal to us.”
They also shared it on his Twitter page.
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
John Witherspoon has been responsible for so many laughs.
He was best known for his role as Ice Cube’s grumpy dad in Friday. He also appeared in the sequels Next Friday, Friday After Next, and according to Deadline, he was expected to reprise his role in the long-gestating final installment of the franchise titled Last Friday.
Witherspoon also voiced Gramps on the cult animated series The Boondocks. He likely would’ve returned for the series’ upcoming revival on HBO Max.
The Hollywood star was also known for his role as Pops on The Wayans Brothers, Witherspoon did stints on such comedy series as The Tracy Morgan Show, The First Family and Black Jesus.
Even with his busy film and TV career, standup comedy remained an important part of Witherspoon’s life. At age 77, he continued to perform regularly and had several dates coming up at the time of his death.
Back in September, John shared photos of his memorable time in St. Tropez with his wife Angela Robinson-Witherspoon, celebrating Magic and Cookie’s anniversary. They’ve been married for 31 Years.
No cause of death has been released at this time, but according to the family it was unexpected.
We’ll keep you all updated with any new information regarding his death, memorial service, and any tributes.
Rest in peace, Pops. You will be terribly missed.
