Comedian and Actor <br />John Witherspoon Dies at 77 Witherspoon, best known for his role in the "Friday" movies, died in his <br />Los Angeles home. The cause of death has <br />not been released. Witherspoon's family released a statement on Twitter. Witherspoon family, via Twitter Born in 1942, Witherspoon had roles on TV shows like 'Barnaby Jones' and 'The Richard Pryor Show.' His "Friday" co-star, Ice Cube, paid tribute to Witherspoon as well. Ice Cube, via Twitter