‘Boyz n the Hood’ Director in Hospital After Suffering Stroke

John Singleton at the 90th Annual Academy Awards at Hollywood & Highland Center in Hollywood, Calif., on March 4, 2018. Neilson Barnard/Getty Images

Oscar-nominated director John Singleton is intensive care in a Los Angeles hospital after having a stroke.

Singleton, the iconic filmmaker behind “Boyz n the Hood,” had checked himself into the hospital earlier in the week complaining of weakness in his leg, TMZ reported.

He had the stroke on Wednesday, April 17, while at the medical facility, according to a statement by the family, cited by the Guardian.

Singleton’s family has asked for privacy and expressed thanks for messages of support.

“On Wednesday, April 17th, our beloved son/father, John Singleton, suffered a stroke while at the hospital. John is currently in the ICU and under great medical care. We ask that privacy be given to him and our family at this time and appreciate all of the prayers that have been pouring in from his fans, friends, and colleagues.”

Singleton received two Oscar nominations—best director and best original screenplay—for “Boyz N the Hood,” which he directed at the age of 23.

Film critic Roger Ebert called it “one of the best American films of recent years” and “a human drama of rare power—Academy Award material.”

Singleton is the youngest filmmaker ever to be nominated for the Oscar category of best director, according to IMDb.

Director John Singleton during the 70th Annual Directors Guild Of America Awards at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif., on Feb. 3, 2018. Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images for DGA

Tributes Pour In

Following news of the stroke, friends, colleagues, and fans have been sending their best wishes.

Movie director Guillermo del Toro, a two-time Academy Award winner, wrote on Twitter, “Get well, John Singleton! Such a generous spirit.”

The rapper Snoop Dogg shared a picture of the pair together on Instagram, writing: “Pray 4 my brother.”

Mark Wahlberg, who starred in Singleton’s 2005 film “Four Brothers,” wrote, “Saying prayers for my brother John Singleton today.”

Actress Nia Long wrote, “Praying hard this morning for my friend John Singleton. PULL THROUGH BABY.”

Brian Koppelman, co-creator of “Billions,” a television drama Singleton has directed episodes of, called working with him a “career highlight.”

Actor Omar Epps wrote: “Pull thru brother! The world needs your voice and vision. Prayers up for your family as well.”

Singleton’s other films include “Poetic Justice,” “Rosewood,” “Shaft,” and “2 Fast 2 Furious.” His recent projects include the TV series “Snowfall,” a crime drama set in 1980s Los Angeles.