Actor and Comedian John "Pops" Witherspoon, died suddenly at his home yesterday; Tuesday Oct. 29th, 2019. His eldest son confirmed in a retweet of the sad and unfortunate news. He was 77.
Condolences poured in from fellow comedians David Alan Grier, Marlon Wayans, Regina King and many other others expressing their deep sadness of his passing.
In 1988, Witherspoon married Angela Robinson. They have two children, John David ("J.D.") and Alexander J.D. is known for making skits and gameplay videos on YouTube. David Letterman is the godfather to Witherspoon's two sons.
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Pictured with his sons David,12, and Alexander Witherspoon,
and his wife Angela Witherspoon |
Witherspoon was best known for his hilarious and iconic role as Willie Jones in 'Friday'. He also appeared in the sequels 'Next Friday' and 'Friday After Next', co-written by his co-star Ice Cube.
I’m devastated over the passing of John Witherspoon. Life won’t be as funny without him. - ICE CUBE
The talented, hardworking Witherspoon was born in Detroit on January 27th, 1942. He launched his career as a stand-up comedian and began acting only landing guest roles in the late 1970's, he finally made his featured debut in the 1980 film 'The Jazz Singer'. Witherspoon appeared in numerous other films, including: The Ladies Man, Soul Plane, Vampire in Brooklyn, Hollywood Shuffle and more!
My dad, my grandpa, my comedic inspiration! I love you Spoons! Rest In Paradise, King - Regina King (Actress)
Witherspoon also voiced Gramps on the cult animated series The Boondocks. Also known for his role as Pops on The Wayans Bros., Witherspoon did stints on such comedy series as The Tracy Morgan Show, The First Family and Black Jesus.
Up to Witherspoon’s death when not acting, he still performed stand-up comedy and had dates and plans set for upcoming shows. Even more sad, it is said that there was also plans of him starring in the final sequel "Last Friday".
Ice Cube Sets Goal For 'Last Friday' Release Date. Ice Cube confirmed that production for the last installment of the Friday franchise was happening.Cube said he hopes to drop the last flick on the original film's 25th anniversary, which would be April 26, 2020. 👏🏾
I'm sure the movie will not be the same without "Pops", but I do hope there is some way he can still factor him in or memorialized him in the movie 😔 if anyone can do it, Ice Cube can!
Witherspoon's son shared a touching message on twitter:
"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 told Deadline in a statement. "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."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
💕 I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences and may God be with His Family and Friends during this time. - City Chic
