Anthony ‘AJ’ Johnson Dies: ‘Friday’ Actor Was 55

Still of Anthony 'AJ' Johnson from 'Friday' movie.

Anthony “AJ” Johnson, an actor and comedian best known for his role as Ezal in the film Friday and E.Z.E. in House Party has died. He was 55.

LyNea Bell, a representative for Johnson, confirmed his death to CNN Monday in a statement.

“The world of comedy has truly been shaken, again. Our BH Talent family is heartbroken about the loss of the iconic legend of stage and screen Mr. Anthony ‘AJ’ Johnson,” Bell said in a statement. “He has left with us amazing memories of his laughter, dynamic acting skills, but most of all his enormous personality and heart of gold.”

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According to published reports, Johnson was found lifeless in a store earlier this month and pronounced dead at a hospital. His death was publicly announced Monday, however no cause of death was given.

Celebrities including Friday co-writer and star Ice Cube paid tribute to Johnson on social media.

“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,” Ice Cube tweeted in response to a post from Friday co-writer DJ Pooh about Johnson’s death.

NBA player Jamal Crawford also paid tribute to Johnson and tweeted: “RIP AJ Johnson. Prayers to his family.”

Johnson was born in Compton in 1965 and began his acting career in his 20s. He had roles in Lethal Weapon 3, Menace II Society, B*A*P*S, and I Got The Hook Up. He also appeared on the television shows Moesha and South Central

Johnson is survived by his wife Lexis, three children, and his two siblings.

Watch some of his scenes from Friday below:


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About Jacquelinne Mejia

Jacquelinne Mejia is a writer and social media producer in Los Angeles. She can be reached on Twitter @JackieMejia.