Funeral Home. (E. Mesiyah McGinnis/L.A. Sentinel)
27 years after his Boys n the Hood fame, the family of John Singleton held a private funeral for him at Angelus Funeral Home, on Crenshaw Blvd., in Los Angeles, CA. Singleton was a giant in the film and television industry but more importantly, he told the Black story and represented inner-city Los Angeles like no one had done before; all by age of 24.
He not only found acclaim as a filmmaker, but also created opportunities for many of the top actors we know today in Cuba Gooding, Jr., Maurice Chestnut, Angela Bassett, Taraji Henson, Tyrese, and more. A few celebrities stopped to give their reflection about his life:
“I was happy to be a part of the celebration of life for John Singleton. The world just does not know what a great man and human he was. He was incredibly creative and his spirit. he helped so many people. John was always giving … he gave me a shot in “Baby Boy, but he was always reaching out to help people. John did that.” – Jackee Harris
“He helped paint picture of our journey as Black men, over centuries. From “Boys n the Hood” to … well for me, it’s “Rosewood” and “Baby Boy.” So, he showed different aspects of the Black man’s journey and the Black family unit journey,” – Ving Rhames.
“It’s a very hard day. I don’t say goodbye but saluting my brother, John Singleton, my friend of 30 years. I will miss him. John Singleton started it, he should the world what inner-city L.A. was all about. I’m so honored that he pulled my in to be a part of his vision. So, now its our opportunity to carry on the torch. – A. J. Johnson
While it’s not confirmed, there is talk that Singleton’s family is planning a memorial to celebrate his life on a larger scale. Perhaps Singleton will deserve a statue, scholarships in his name and more. He not only represented and told the stories of inner city Los Angeles but also shot most of his films in inner-city neighborhoods and was able to bring money back into the community.
Singleton brought pride to inner city communities and represented himself in a positive light. Boyz n the Hood told our story that resonated with most; that was the genius of his writing.
Congresswoman Maxine Waters spoke of Singleton’s amazing career and stopped to mention her prayers for his family. When asked which was her favorite emphatically said, “Boys in the Hood!” she said.
