Breaking: John Witherspoon, Actor And Comedian, Dies At 77

His comedy genius goes back to the days of Good Times.

This story originally appeared at Do You Remember by Nick Smithson.

  • Actor and comedian John Witherspoon dies at the age of 77. We do not know the cause of death at this time.
  • For example, he passed away at his home, surrounded by family.
  • John was best known as Ice Cube’s father in the 1995 comedy movie, Friday, but also had roles on several sitcoms through the decades.
  • Witherspoon died at his family home and is survived by his wife and two sons.

His family stated, “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.”

Where do you know John Witherspoon from?

His first roles in Hollywood were in the 1970’s on shows like The Richard Pryor Show and The Incredible Hulk. I remember him from guest roles on What’s Happening!! and Good Times.

John Witherspoon was born in Detroit, MI, in 1942 and was one of eleven children. He began to do stand-up in clubs around the ’60s and into the ’70s and continued performing comedy in clubs throughout his life.

© NBC Universal, Inc.

John Witherspoon will live on through his work and his family

“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,” his family and management said.

Ice Cube who was John’s on-screen son in Friday, stated his condolences on Twitter: “I’m devastated over the passing of John Witherspoon. Life won’t be as funny without him.”

© 2002 New Line Cinema

Watch an iconic scene from Friday in the video below (some R-rated language in clip):
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