Actor Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister has passed away at the age of 62. The cause of death has yet to be determined. However, the news of his death was confirmed by his manager Cindy Cowan.
“He was a wonderful guy with a heart of gold. Everyone loved him. A real gentle giant,” Cowan said. “We’re all devastated.”
Lister, who fans lovingly address as Deebo for his role in the Ice Cube film Friday, was found unconscious in an apartment located at Marina Del Rey, California. Officials declared the actor deceased at the scene.
His death comes one year after the death of Friday co-star John Witherspoon, who died of a heart attack at the age of 77 on October 29, 2019.
Ice Cube sent his condolences on Twitter, “RIP Tiny “Deebo” Lister. America’s favorite bully was a born entertainer who would pop into character at the drop of a hat terrifying people on and off camera. Followed by a big smile and laugh. Thank you for being a good dude at heart. I miss you already.”
With 220 acting credits in his portfolio, Lister had just completed five films, was in the process of shooting two films, and had three future films on his slate.
The Compton native’s acting career spans almost four decades, with his most notable roles in the Martin Lawrence led Talkin’ Dirty After Dark, Ice Cube’s The Players Club, and Master P’s I Got The Hook Up and it’s sequel I Got The Hook Up 2.
Although the actor was widely known, he never forgot his roots and would often be seen sitting at the front pews of the West Angeles Church of God In Christ in South Central Los Angeles. He would also go on to devote his life to mentoring troubled youth and leading public speaking engagements.
He is survived by his wife, Felicia Forbes, and his daughter.
