Actor and comedian John Witherspoon passed away suddenly in his home on October 29. He was 77.
Witherspoon, also known as “Pops,” was known for his many supporting roles in various films and television series, though his best known role was as Willie Jones in the Friday series, the father of the series’ star Ice Cube. His speech to Ice Cube over the use of fists over guns to solve problems remains one of the comedy’s most emotional moments.
Long before Friday, Witherspoon’s career started in stand-up comedy, making many friends in the business, including Robin Williams, David Letterman, and Jay Leno. During this phase of his career, he took on many roles in television through the 1970’s and 1980’s, including guest appearances in Good Times, Hill Street Blues, and The Incredible Hulk.
After some small supporting parts in films, his first major role was as the irritated neighbor Mr. Strickland in the 1990 comedy House Party, being the neighbor repeatedly woken up by the titular party. He continued to take on supporting roles in other major films after that, including the Eddie Murphy films Boomerang and Vampire in Brooklyn.
The same year that Friday was released, Witherspoon also became a main cast member of the TV series The Wayans Bros., portraying the father of the series stars, Marlon and Shawn Wayans. This would go on to become one of Witherspoon’s most notable roles, portraying the character for five seasons from 1995-1999.
Television would be where Witherspoon would find his niche. From 2005-2014, he took on a major part in Aaron MacGruder’s animated series The Boondocks on Adult Swim, voicing Robert Jebediah "Granddad" Freeman, the grandfather of main characters Huey and Riley Freeman, both voiced by Regina King. His loud bursts of anger fit very well with the comedian’s noted over-the-top style that he became known for over the years. After The Boondocks ended, Witherspoon starred in another MacGruder series, Black Jesus, also on Adult Swim, portraying a homeless man named Lloyd. The third season of the series is currently airing as of this article.
Witherspoon was set to reprise his role as Granddad on a reboot of The Boondocks produced by MacGruder set to premiere in 2020. While it’s unfortunate he won’t be a part of said reboot, he leaves behind a legacy of plenty of memorable roles.
Comments