AJ ‘Ezal’ Johnson, best known for his ‘Ezal’ role on Friday passed away on September 6th at the age of 55. The passing of Johnson was confirmed by the actor’s representative, LyNea Bell, owner of BH Talent. “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,” said representative LyNea Bell in a statement to Variety.
Ice Cube took to Twitter to pay respects to Johnson who he calls a naturally funny dude. “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
AJ Johnson was born in Compton, CA. Some of his most iconic roles include Lil Man (The Players Club), James (B*A*P*S), Blue (I Got The Hook Up), and Spootie (How To Be A Player). Earlier this year, Johnson revealed he was contacted to reprise his role in the second installment of the Friday franchise but was replaced when producers were able to secure Fredro Starr at a cheaper rate. Ice Cube took to Twitter to pay respects to Johnson, who he calls a naturally funny dude, apologizing for not bringing 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…
Regarding his health, back in 2017, the actor suffered a panic attack at the LaGuardia Airport in NYC on his way to a comedy show. Details surrounding his passing have not been released. Johnson leaves behind his wife Lexis, three children, brother Edward ‘Peanut’ Smith, sister Sheila, and lifetime manager and friend Mike D. We’ll keep you posted as more details are released.
