Reynaldo Rey, star of 'The White Men Can't Jump', passed away on Thursday at the age of 75. Rey's manager, Vanzil Burke, broke the news to the media.
He confirmed that the actor and comedian died in Los Angeles' Kindred Hospital at 5:30 AM, due to complications he suffered because of a stroke last year.
Rey was born as Harry Reynolds in Sequoyah County, Oklahoma and studied Education at Kansas State Teacher's College. Before he began his career in acting, Rey first lived in Cleveland, Ohio, where he taught for seven years and became a member of the Karamu House Theater.
He started out as a stand-up comedian at the age of 33, where he used to work for his mentor Red Foxx, before he finally shifted into films.
The actor and comedian is best known for his character in the F. Gary Gray film 'Friday,' where he played as DJ Pooh's father named Red.
According to CNN, Rey was apparently a member of the Harlem Theater Group and appeared in 52 movies, including 'House Party 3,' 'Far Out Man,' 'Young Doctors in Love,' 'Fakin' da Funk,' 'The Breaks,' 'Super Spy,' 'Little Richard' and 'A Rage in Harlem Night.'
The 75-year old actor is survived by his wife Evelyn, his children Harla Major and Golden Rey, and his mother Lillian Murray.
Rey's other popular films were 'For da Love of Money and Family Reunion: The Movie and Harlem Nights.' The actor also had roles on a few television shows such as 'The Bernie Mac Show,' 'Sister Sister,' 'The Tonight Show' and 'Everybody Hates Cris.'
Jackee Harry, Rey's co-star, has paid tribute to his friend through Twitter. She tweeted, "Rest in peace to my dear friend and 227 co-star, Reynaldo Rey. 'Red' will always hold a place in my heart."
Rest in peace to my dear friend and 227 co-star, Reynaldo Rey. 'Red' will always hold a place in my heart. xox
— Jackée Harry (@JackeeHarry) May 29, 2015
