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John Witherspoon: A Look Back at His Funniest and Most Memorable Roles

Monica Otayza
Nov 01, 2019
02:20 P.M.

It came as a shock to many that iconic actor and comedian John Witherspoon passed away at age 77 on October 30.

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After John Witherspoon's death was confirmed on Wednesday morning, many decided to look back at the wonderful life and career that John had lived throughout his 77 years of life.

A portrait of the late John Witherspoon | Source: Getty Images/GlobalImagesUkraine

A portrait of the late John Witherspoon | Source: Getty Images/GlobalImagesUkraine

Remembering John Witherspoon

John's stand-up career began in the late 1970s before he was given the opportunity to act both on TV and film. With his discography spanning 40 years, he starred in the likes of "Hollywood Shuffle," "The Boondocks," "Boomerang," and "Black Jesus," among many others.

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Before his death, it was even reported that he was slated to return for the revival of "The Boondocks" on HBO Max.

Testimonials from John's Fellow Actors

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Those who worked with Witherspoon in the industry had nothing but kind words to say about the actor at the time of his death, including Martin Lawrence, who starred alongside John and Eddie Murphy in the 1992 drama-romance "Boomerang."

“The world has lost a true comedy legend and all around genuine soul, who paved the way for so many of us to be able to do what we love. My deepest condolences to John’s family. I know he’s already up there makin everyone laugh #rip #comedy #legend #JohnWitherspoon."

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Remembered as a Fun, Sweet, Wise and Humble Man

Likewise, Shawn Wayans who starred alongside Witherspoon and his brother Marlon posted a couple of messages on Instagram about his "TV dad."

"I'm sad. Broken. Hurt.. Yet extremely grateful to God that I got to spend 5 years of my life working with one of the funniest sweetest wisest humblest loving man."

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A Life to Be Remembered

Like many well-loved actors, actresses, and entertainers that have passed away, John Witherspoon will be remembered as a person who put smiles on thousands of people's faces.

The same way he is remembered by those whom he was able to work with in his lifetime, his fans will also remember him as one of those who brought joy and laughter into their homes.

Rest In Peace, John Witherspoon. You will always be remembered.

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