Star of the Friday movies

American comedian John Witherspoon has died at the age of 77.

In a statement on social media, the family said: ’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.’

He died at his home in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, but no cause of death has yet been given.

Witherspoon was best known for playing Willie Jones in Ice Cube’s Friday series of movies, but also appeared in Hollywood Shuffle, Boomerang, House Party, Vampire In Brooklyn and TV shows including  The Wayans Bros, The Tracy Morgan Show  and Black Jesus.

The Detroit-born performer also undertook several stand-up comedy tours of the US.

Among those paying tribute were Judd Apatow, who called him ‘pure funny. Hilarious and always kind.’

He is survived by his wife Angela, and sons JD and Alexander.

Published: 30 Oct 2019