Oscar-nominated director John Singleton is in intensive care after suffering a stroke.  The film-maker, known for movies including Boyz N the Hood, the 2000 remake of Shaft and 2 Fast 2 Furious, fell ill on Wednesday, his family said in a statement to the Press Association. 

Singleton, 51, is now in hospital “under great medical care”, they said. 

The statement said: “On Wednesday, 17 April our beloved son/father, John Singleton, suffered a stroke while at the hospital.  John is currently in the ICU and under great medical care. 

“We ask that privacy be given to him and our family at this time and appreciate all of the prayers that have been pouring in from his fans, friends and colleagues.” 

It was signed by the Singleton family, including his four children. 

Following news of the stroke, friends and colleagues sent their best wishes.  The rapper Snoop Dogg shared a picture of the pair together on Instagram, writing: “Pray 4 my brother.” 

Brian Koppelman, co-creator of Billions, a TV drama Singleton has directed episodes of, said working with him had been a “career highlight”. 

Praying hard this morning for my friend @johnsingleton PULL THROUGH BABY ❤️ pic.twitter.com/neYNnRFmX4 — Nia Long (@NiaLong) April 20, 2019

Chicago Fire co-creator Derek Haas said: “John Singleton is a wonderful human.  Get well!”  Actor Nia Long tweeted that the director was in her prayers. 

Los Angeles-born Singleton’s films often deal with themes of inner-city violence. 

His 1991 film Boyz N the Hood – his directorial debut, at the age of just 23 – earned him an Academy Award nomination for best director, making him the first African-American nominee and the youngest ever.