Nationwide — TMZ and other credible sources have now confirmed that actor and comedian Tommy Ford, born Thomas Mikal Ford, has died. Ford was best known for his character on the hit 90’s sitcom Martin starring Martin Lawrence, Tichina Arnold, Carl Payne, and Tisha Campbell. He played Tommy Strawn on all five seasons from 1992 to 1997.
Reportedly, Ford had been on life support after an aneurysm ruptured in his abdomen during a knee surgery. He was hospitalized, but his health declined forcing him to be put on life support. When doctors said, however, that there was no hope, his family made the decision to turn off support this afternoon.
His family released a statement on his Instagram account saying: “It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely passing of our beloved son, father, brother, husband, and friend Tommy Mykhal Ford. On behalf of the family, we would like to thank everyone for their love, support and prayers. Funeral arrangements will be forthcoming. Please respect the privacy of the Ford family during our time of grief.”
Just hours before he passed, Martin Lawrence himself posted a message on Twitter saying: “Prayers up for my brother @BigTommyFord and his family.”
Ford’s Who’s Got Jokes cast mate Bill Bellamy also shared his condolences on social media. He tweeted: “Today I received some sad news that I have lost my brother and cast member #tommyford We bonded over 5 seasons of #whosgotjokes a show that highlighted so many of the next generation comedians. I just want the fans to pray for all of our families.”
Watch some of Tommy Ford’s funniest moments below: