Stars of the big screen have paid tribute to Oscar-nominated director John Singleton, following his death at the age of 51.
The US filmmaker, who directed the Oscar-nominated Boyz N The Hood, died after being taken off life support almost two weeks after suffering a stroke.
His family announced they had taken the “agonising decision” to remove him from life-support.
“We are grateful to his fans, friends and colleagues for the outpour of love and prayers during this incredibly difficult time,” they said.
“We want to thank all the doctors at Cedars Sinai for the impeccable care he received.”
Jamie Foxx was one of the first big names to pay tribute on Instagram, writing: “God blessings… You changed a culture with your art… and impacted the world with your vision.”
Samuel L Jackson tweeted: “Mourning the loss of a collaborator & True Friend John Singleton. He blazed the trail for many young film makers, always remaining true to who he was & where he came from!!! RIP Brother. Gone Way Too Soon!”
Actress Regina King, who appeared in Boyz N The Hood, shared a picture on Instagram of herself with the director.
“Rest In Power, my friend,” she wrote. “One of the greatest to ever do it. Thank you GOD for blessing us with this gift better known as John Singleton. Having trouble finding enough words to share just what you mean to me. Will always love you John! Your spirit will forever shine bright.”
Fellow director Spike Lee also posted a message on Instagram saying the pair had been close for years, “cheering each other on in this industry that is not set up for us to win”.
“I Will Forever Miss My Brother John Singleton,” he wrote. “We Met While He Was A Film Student At USC. Over Many Years People Have Told Me ‘I’m Going To Be A Filmmaker’, When John Said That To Me The 1st Time We Met, I Believed Him Right Away. It Was No Surprise.
“With His Passion, His Heart, The Way He Talked About His Love For Cinema And Black Folks I Could See John Would Make It Happen, And He Did.
“From Day One, We Have Remained Close Over The Decades, Cheering Each Other On In This Industry That Is Not Set Up For Us To Win. John Singleton’s Films Will Live On Forever. Blessings And Prayers For His Family. May John Rest In Power. Amen.”
Get Out and Us director Jordan Peele said Singleton – who became the first African-American and the youngest person ever to be nominated for the best director Oscar for Boyz N The Hood – was an “inspiration”
“RIP John Singleton,” he said on Twitter. “So sad to hear. John was a brave artist and a true inspiration. His vision changed everything.”
Many other tributes poured in for the director...