Art & Style
Samuel L. Jackson, Tyrese, Regina King and More Pay Tribute to John Singleton at Memorial Service
The life of director/writer John Singleton was celebrated in a sober ceremony attended by many Hollywood actors, directors, producers, and executives, in addition to his friends and family.
Singleton died April 19 at age 51 following complications from a stroke. A private funeral was held earlier this month.
The memorial was held at USC, Singleton’s alma mater, and was attended by such celebrities as Samuel L. Jackson, Denzel Washington, Vin Diesel, Regina King, Tyrese Gibson, Nia Long, Kennan Ivory Wayans, Robert Townsend, Guy Torry, Michael Blackson and Affion Crockett.
Jackson, who starred in Singleton’s 2000 remake of “Shaft”, spoke about the director/writer’s knack for knowing which lines would play well with audiences. For example, Jackson initially was leery about his signature “It’s my duty…” catchphrase from “Shaft.” Jackson said Singleton once convinced him that line would be a hit, and it was, he said.
Nia Long, who starred in Singleton’s first film “Boyz N The Hood,” spoke about meeting the director during her audition for the film. She also spoke for Angela Bassett and Tyra Ferrell, the other main female characters from the movie, sharing how much Singleton has meant to their careers.
An emotional Tyrese Gibson, who starred in Singleton’s “Baby Boy” and “Four Brothers” spoke about the impact the director has had on his life, including being among the first to suggest Gibson take up acting.
The crew members who worked closely with Singleton also shared their favorite memories of the director, including his audio technicians, casting directors and costume designers.
Famed costume designer Ruth Carter shared memories of how John loved her Sangria and other moments that offered tremendous insight into his personality. “John was love,” Carter told the small crowd at USC’s Bovard Theater.
Producer Paul Hall, who worked with Singleton on several films, along with Singleton’s family, put together a well-organized and succinct memorial service that also featured a performance from composer Stanley Clarke, who played for the audience music from the movie “Poetic Justice.”
Los Angeles City Council President Herb J. Wesson Jr. was also on hand to declare May 21, 2019 “John Singleton Day” in Los Angeles.
“There is not enough that can be said about John Singleton and the profound impact he made in his 51 years of life,” Wesson said. “In a time and in an industry where all the odds were stacked against him, John overcame and became the best at his craft. And more than maybe anyone, he opened people’s eyes to a reality and an experience of South Los Angeles that had been overlooked by society. Now in Los Angeles this day is a time to celebrate John and his legacy. It’s far sooner than we should have to, but there is so much to celebrate.”
Producer Craig Brewer, who worked with Singleton on “Hustle & Flow” for which Singleton was executive producer, shared stories of Singleton working tirelessly to find financing for the movie and even offering to finance the film himself until it was bought by a studio. He also talked about the mentorship Singleton has provided him over the years.
The audience also saw video tributes to Singleton from such friends as Ice Cube, Spike Lee and Mark Wahlberg.
Singleton’s seven children (Cleopatra, Hadar, Isis, Justice, Maasai, Selensol, Seven) were also in attendance and several spoke about how moving the tributes were.
In an effort to continue Singleton’s work in education and filmmaking, a scholarship has been established at USC in his name. For more information visit cinema.usc.edu/singleton
See photos from the John Singleton Celebration of Life Memorial below.
Great “CELEBRATION OF LIFE” for Legendary John Singleton yesterday @USC So many Beautiful People with Heart 💜 Felt words of admiration for a man who Helped So Many. pic.twitter.com/3hb2BadFIO
— Joe Torry (@joetorry1) May 22, 2019
