(L to R: John Singleton, Cuba Gooding Jr., Ice Cube and Morris Chesnut
on the set of "Boyz N in the Hood".)
BY LEE PFEIFFER
Filmmaker John Singleton has died from the effects of a stroke at age 51. His death was not unexpected, as doctors had been unable to revive him and his family made the difficult decision to remove him from life support. Singleton was an inspiration for African-American filmmakers, building on successes by Gordon Parks and Spike Lee. His 1990 film "Boyz N in the Hood" was a personal reflection on growing up black in L.A. The film was a major hit and was highly acclaimed. He became the first African-American to be nominated for a Best Director Oscar, and the youngest person ever nominated in that category. He was also nominated for his screenplay. Singleton was only 24 years old and had recently graduated from USC film school. He built on the momentum with "Poetic Justice", "Higher Learning", "Rosewood" and other acclaimed films. He also produced the hit movie "Hustle & Flow" and in recent years had turned his attention to producing and directing television series. Singleton's death at a relatively young age was caused by a lifelong battle with hypertension and high blood pressure. For more, click here.