Ice Cube & Fans Share Heartfelt Messages on Death of Tommy "Tiny" Lister

Lister, a Compton, California native is known for starring in Friday, Next Friday, The Fifth Element, Player's Club, and more cult films.

Tommy “Tiny” Lister, known for his roles in the classic Friday movies, has died at the age of 62.

According to TMZ, he was found unconscious in his Marina Del Rey, California apartment on Thursday and a cause of death has not been determined. Lister’s manager Cindy Cowan shared that though he did not test positive for coronavirus, he was experiencing “COVID symptoms” for a week. 

“He was a gentle giant and one-of-a-kind,” Cowan said. “A man that's like been a brother to me for 20 years.”

Following the news of his death, Ice Cube, his co-star in Friday shared a few warm words on Lister. In a tweet, he wrote, “RIP Tiny “Deebo” Lister. America’s favorite bully was a born entertainer who would pop into character at the drop of a hat terrifying people on and off camera.” The tweet also read, “Followed by a big smile and laugh. Thank you for being a good dude at heart. I miss you already.”

The WWE also tweeted in response to Lister’s shocking death as he was known by Zeus in the pro wrestling industry years ago. “WWE is saddened to learn that Tom “Tiny” Lister, known as Zeus to the WWE Universe, passed away today.”

Born on June 24, 1958 in Compton, California, Lister began his professional career as a pro wrestler. In Friday (1995), he played the role of Deebo which was arguably his most acclaimed character. He also starred in the follow-up Next Friday which released in 2000. Additional films he starred in included The Fifth Element, The Dark Knight, The Player’s Club, A Thin Line Between Love and Hate, Austin Powers in Goldmember, Jackie Brown, and Beverly Hills Cop II. He also appeared in the following Black sitcoms: Martin, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and The Jamie Foxx Show. 

Take a look at additional tributes to Tony “Tiny” Lister below.