8:31 AM PT -- Johnson's rep tells TMZ ... "Our BH Talent family is saddened about the loss of an amazing iconic legend in comedy, our client and friend Anthony "AJ" Johnson."
The rep adds ... "We are praying for all those that were touched by his comedy, acting, but most of all his life. We are especially praying for his beloved Wife, Children, Siblings and Manager."
Anthony Johnson -- best known for his roles in "House Party" and "Friday" -- has died ... TMZ has learned.
Johnson's nephew tells us ... A.J. was found lifeless in a store earlier this month in Los Angeles and rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. So far, no cause of death has been released.
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
The actor and comedian's career took off in 1990 after he landed the role of E.Z.E. in "House Party" and going on to do stand-up all over L.A.
After that, he appeared in films like "Lethal Weapon 3" and "Menace II Society" before his breakout role playing Ezal in the 1995 comedy "Friday."
A.J. would go on to appear in nearly 50 films and TV shows, including "Moesha," "Martin," "Malcolm & Eddie," "The Players Club" and "I Got the Hook Up" and its sequel. It's also rumored Johnson was cast to reprise his role in the upcoming "Last Friday."
Johnson was 55.
RIP
Originally Published -- 6:30 AM PT