Tommy Ford Dies: ‘Martin’ Star Was 52

UPDATED with family statement: Tommy Ford, who starred as Tommy on the 1990s sitcom Martin, has died. He was 52.

His family released the following statement via his publicist to Deadline.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely passing of our beloved Son, father, brother, husband, and friend Tommy Mykal 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.”

His rep earlier confirmed the news on Twitter.

And his brother announced the sad news on Instagram, writing “To all family and friends of Tommy Ford. We would like to inform everyone that our brother passed away today October 12, 2016 surrounded by his loving family. Please keep his family in your prayers as they go through this challenging time. He was so dearly loved by so many and for that lets all be grateful for a life well served.”

Details and cause of death are not yet known.

Ford played Martin Lawrence’s best friend Tommy for all five seasons of the show. He also appeared on other TV series including New York Undercover and The Jamie Foxx Show, and has written a children’s book series on the importance of avoiding drugs and violence.

Related stories

Britta Wilson Named Pixar's VP Of Inclusion Strategies

Disney's Live-Action 'Lion King' Taps Jeff Nathanson As Writer

On-Location TV Shoots In Los Angeles Are Up, But Filming Is Down

Get more from Deadline.com: Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Newsletter