Comedian and Friday Star Anthony Johnson Dead at 55

Anthony “A.J.” Johnson inI Got the Hook-Up(1998).Photo: Dimension Films/courtesy Everett

Anthony “A.J.” Johnson, an actor and comedian known for his roles inFridayandHouse Party, has died. He was 55.

Johnson’s rep confirmed his death to PEOPLE “with great sadness.”

The actor was discovered “lifeless” in a Los Angeles store this month, his nephew toldTMZ, and was later taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Johnson’s official cause of death has not yet been shared publicly.

After landing the role of E.Z.E. in 1990’sHouse Party,Johnson went on to star in 1994’sHouse Party 3. His other notable film roles includeLethal Weapon 3, Menace II Society, Panther, Friday, How to Be a Player, BAP*S, I Got the Hook Up, Hot BoyzandI Got the Hook Up 2.

Johnson also appeared in multiple television series, starring onThe Bold and the Beautiful, Malcolm & Eddie, The Jamie Foxx Show, The Parent ‘Hood, Moesha, Martin, Def Comedy JamandSouth Central.

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“RIP Anthony Johnson. He had more quotable lines in one movie than a lot of people [sic] careers,” one fanwrote.

Anotheradded, “So many funny comedians had so many funny lines inThe Players Club. Anthony Johnson had one of the most memorable ones. RIP to him. Very sad news.”

“RIP Anthony Johnson aka Ezal on Friday. He’s stealing boxes in heaven now,” anotherwrote.

source: people.com