His manager confirmed that he had passed away in Los Angeles last night (October 29), though no cause of death has been revealed.
Witherspoon famously starred as Ice Cube's father in Friday, Next Friday and Friday After Next.
He was also a frequent collaborator of the Wayans Brothers and appeared in a number of films alongside Eddie Murphy, such as Boomerang, Vampire in Brooklyn and Dr. Doolittle 2. Witherspoon even appeared in JAY-Z's 2000 music video for "I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me)."
More recently, Witherspoon voiced "Granddad" on animated series The Boondocks. The show ran from 2005 to 2014, but was recently picked up by HBO for a two-season reboot set to debut next year. Witherspoon was expected to reprise his role.
Witherspoon is survived by his wife Angela and his two sons JD and Alexander.
Read some of the social media tributes pouring in for Witherspoon below.
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
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 liked that. He was my best friend & my idol. Love U Dad...I’ll miss u. - J.D.
I’m devastated over the passing of John Witherspoon. Life won’t be as funny without him.
My dad, my grandpa, my comedic inspiration! I love you Spoons! Rest In Paradise, King
🎤 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
Oh man, so sorry to hear about John Witherspoon. A great comic and a class act. Years ago, I had the privileged of working with him and not only was his act hilarious but he would also kill by dropping one of his many unforgettable movie quotes. #RIPJohnWitherspoon #coordinate
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