John Singleton: Boyz n the Hood director 'under great medical care' after suffering stroke

Film director John Singleton, best known for Boyz n the Hood, has suffered a stroke.

The filmmaker, 51, whose credits also include Shaft and 2 Fast 2 Furious, fell ill on Wednesday and is now in hospital “under great medical care”.

Singleton suffered the stroke while at the hospital, his family told Press Association in a statement.

It 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.”

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

Singleton's friends and colleagues, including rapper Snoop Dogg, director Guillermo del Toro and actor Omar Epps, have sent him their best wishes.

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

His 1991 film Boyz n the Hood earned him an Academy Award nomination for best director, making him the first African American nominee and the youngest ever.