We have heartbreaking news to share I Love Old School Music family … comedian and actor, AJ Johnson, has passed away at the young age of 55. Most of us are familiar with A.J. from his infamous roles in cult classic films like, “I Got The Hook Up,” and “Friday. He brought so many laughs to us — both on the big screen and on stage in stand-up comedy.
Though the details of A.J.’s passing are sketchy, his nephew, as well as his rep’ spoke out to share what is known of A.J. Johnson’s death thus far:
Via TMZ – Johnson’s nephew tells us … A.J. was found lifeless in a store earlier this month in Los Angeles and rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. So far, no cause of death has been released. …
Johnson’s rep tells TMZ … “Our BH Talent family is saddened about the loss of an amazing iconic legend in comedy, our client and friend Anthony “AJ” Johnson.”
The rep adds … “We are praying for all those that were touched by his comedy, acting, but most of all his life. We are especially praying for his beloved Wife, Children, Siblings and Manager.”
A.J. Johnson was rumored to have been prepping to rekindle his role as “EZE” in the upcoming “Last Friday” sequel, but that has yet to be officially confirmed. “Friday” franchise creator, rap legend Ice Cube, took to Twitter to pay homage to A.J. Johnson after news begin spreading regarding his untimely passing:
Ice Cube- “Sad to wake up to the news about AJ Johnson passing away. Naturally funny dude who was straight outta Compton at the same time. Sorry I couldn’t bring your character Ezal back to the big screen in Last Friday…”
Sad to wake up to the news about AJ Johnson passing away. Naturally funny dude who was straight outta Compton at the same time. Sorry I couldn’t bring your character Ezal back to the big screen in Last Friday… https://t.co/gKbYZDZ4Br
— Ice Cube (@icecube) September 20, 2021
Throughout his career, A.J. Johnson has appeared in 50+ films and television shows, such as “The Player’s Club, “Moesha,” “Martin,” “Lethal Weapon 3,” “Menace II Society,” “House Party,” and more. And his portrayal of Eazy-E in Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s 1993 “Dre Day” music video was epic.
A.J.’s passing has rocked the entertainment industry just two weeks after “The Wire” actor, Michael K. Wright, passed away from a suspected drug overdose. May both of those kings rest in peace and power.
