HOLLYWOOD—Director John Singleton, known for his breakout film “Boyz N the Hood” died on Monday, April 29, after being taken off life support by his family. Singleton has been hospitalized and placed into a medically induced coma after suffering a stroke on April 17.
The director reportedly felt pains in his legs after returning back to the U.S. from a trip to Costa Rica and admitted himself to Cedars-Sinai Medical Hospital to be treated. Earlier on Monday, Singleton’s family issued a statement noting that he would be pulled off life support.
“This was an agonizing decision, one that our family made, over a number of days, with the careful counsel of John’s doctors,” the family said in a statement.
“John passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family and friends,” said Singleton’s family in a statement. “We want to thank the amazing doctors at Cedars-Sinai [Medical Center] for their expert care and kindness, and we again want to thank all of John’s fans, friends and colleagues for all of the love and support they showed him during this difficult time.”
He grew up in South Los Angeles and graduate from USC where he attended the School of Cinematic Arts. Singleton was the first African-American to earn a Best Director Academy Award nomination for his debut film “Boyz N the Hood” in 1991. He also earned a Best Original Screenplay nomination. The movie portrayed the lives of young African-American men in South Central Los Angeles and starred Cuba Gooding, Jr., Ice Cube, Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne.
He also wrote and produced the 1993 film “Poetic Justice” and the 2000 remake “Shaft.” He is responsible for directing the films “Higher Learning,” “Rosewood,” “Baby Boy” and “Four Brothers.” He also served as a producer on the 2005 “Hustle and Flow” starring Terrance Howard and Taraji P. Henson. Actors and actresses who worked with Singleton sent condolences via social media.
Snoop Dogg, who starred in the movie “Baby Boy” posted on Instagram “Thank you for all that you gave to the world the movies the messages the opportunities to so many people like myself to grace the big screen in a major role with major black actors you were and will allways be black excellence love you for life and beyond.”
“Us” and “Get Out” director Jordan Peele tweeted, “RIP John Singleton. So sad to hear. John was a brave artist and a true inspiration. His vision changed everything.” Actress Regina King posted on Instagram “Rest In Power, my friend. One of the greatest to ever do it. Thank you GOD for blessing us with this gift better known as John Singleton. Having trouble finding enough words to share just what you mean to me. Will always love you John! Your spirit will forever shine bright.”
Ice Cube tweeted “I was discovered by a master filmmaker by the name of John Singleton. He not only made me a movie star but made me a filmmaker. There are no words to express how sad I am to lose my brother, friend & mentor. He loved bring the black experience to the world. ..Us at Cannes ’90.”
Singleton lives behind seven children Maasai, Cleopatra, Hadar, Justice, Selenesol, Isis and Seven. He also leaves behind his mother Sheila Ward and father Danny Singleton.
Written By Casey Jacobs
