'Martin' actor Tommy Mykal Ford passes away at 52

Actor Tommy Mykal Ford,  who starred on five seasons of Martin Lawrence's "Martin sitcom", has passed away. He was 52.

Ford died late Wednesday afternoon, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Ford's family released a statement, "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."

The actor joined the Fox sitcom in 1992, playing side kick Tommy Strawn in the comedy for more than 100 episodes.

Following the series, he nabbed a role on Fox drama series "New York Undercover" as Lt Malcolm Barker and on UPN's "The Parkers" as Mel Parker.

Prior to his career-making turn on the Lawrence series, Ford appeared on "MacGyver", "Living Single", "The Flash", "Law & Order" and the TV version of "Uncle Buck".

Ford's career in film, television and theater spanned more than two decades. His film appearances through the years include "Harlem Nights", "Night and the City" and "Class Act".

Recently, he branched out as a motivational speaker.

Word of his death spread quickly, flooding social media with tributes from fans and celebrities, which led to his name trending world wide on Twitter.