John Singleton death: Spike Lee pens emotional tribute to Boyz N The Hood director after he dies age 51

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Hollywood director Spike Lee has led tributes to filmmaker John Singleton following his death aged 51.

The Oscar-nominated Boyz N The Hood director Singleton died after being taken off life support nearly two weeks after a stroke.

Stars in the film industry have been paying tribute following the announcement of his death on Monday.

Leading tributes, Lee penned an emotional message saying the pair had been close for years.

He added: "I Will Forever Miss My Brother.”

In a post on Instagram, Lee wrote: "We Met While He Was A Film Student At USC.

“Over Many Years People Have Told Me 'I'm Going To Be A Filmmaker'.

Director John Singleton has died aged 51
AFP/Getty Images

“When John Said That To Me The 1st Time We Met, I Believed Him Right Away. It Was No Surprise.

Tributes: John Singleton, left, and Spike Lee
Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP

"With His Passion, His Heart, The Way He Talked About His Love For Cinema And Black Folks I Could See John Would Make It Happen, And He Did.

"From Day One, We Have Remained Close Over The Decades, Cheering Each Other On In This Industry That Is Not Set Up For Us To Win.

"John Singleton's Films Will Live On Forever.

"Blessings And Prayers For His Family. May John Rest In Power. Amen."

Jamie Foxx said Singleton "changed a culture".

In a tribute on Instagram, he said: "God blessings...

"You changed a culture with your art... and impacted the world with your vision."

Actress Regina King, who appeared in Boyz N The Hood, shared a picture on Instagram of herself with Singleton.

"Rest In Power, my friend," she wrote.

"One of the greatest to ever do it.

"Thank you GOD for blessing us with this gift better known as John Singleton.

"Having trouble finding enough words to share just what you mean to me. Will always love you John!

"Your spirit will forever shine bright."

Director Jordan Peele said Singleton - who became the first African-American and the youngest person ever to be nominated for the best director Oscar for Boyz N The Hood - was an "inspiration".

"RIP John Singleton," he said on Twitter.

"So sad to hear.

"John was a brave artist and a true inspiration.

"His vision changed everything."

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