Legendary actor and comedian John Witherspoon has passed away at the age of 77.
Witherspoon’s family confirmed his death in a statement on Tuesday.
The statement reads: “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 was most known for playing Ice Cube’s father in the classic Friday film, but racked up over 80 credits during his career including his role as Pops in The Wayans Brothers and Gramps in The Boondocks.
Many of John Witherspoon’s peers have paid tribute to the actor on social media, including Ice Cube.
“I’m devastated over the passing of John Witherspoon. Life won’t be as funny without him” Ice Cube wrote on Twitter.
The family have asked for privacy in the immediate aftermath of Witherspoon’s passing.