Clarence Williams III, known for his role as Linc Hayes on the hippie cop show The Mod Squad and Prince's father in the musical drama Purple Rain, has died. He was 81.
The actor's manager Allan Mindel announced the death Sunday. Williams died at his Los Angeles home after a battle with colon cancer, The Associated Press said.
Fans and colleagues have remembered Williams' colorful life on social media.
Tales from the Hood director Rusty Cundieff said in a tweet that his sadness over William's passing couldn't be "overstated."
"His artistry and sheer coolness was extraordinary," he added. "I will forever be in his debt for his brilliant performance in Tales from the Hood. Loved working with him! Blessed travels good sir!"
Lenny Kravitz also celebrated Williams' life, remembering his day as a child growing up in New York and seeing the actor on TV. He identified with Williams, who became his inspiration, thanks to his "dynamic energy" performances.
Director Peyton Reed, in addition, recalled the time when he worked with Williams on the TV movie, The Love Bug, in 1995, saying he's the "epitome of cool." "Turns out he was. Rest In Peace, Clarence," he tweeted.
Williams started in the business in 1957 with a stage role in Dark of the Moon. He then worked opposite Geraldine Page in The Great Outdoors on Broadway, according to Variety.
He received a Tony nomination and a Theatre World award for his performance in Slow Dance on the Killing Ground in 1965.
In 1968, Williams joined The Mod Squad along with Peggy Lipton and Michael Cole. He was one of the main protagonists and remained a big part until the show ended in 1973.
He continued his career on TV, film and theater, spanning four decades. He became Prince's father in Purple Rain in 1984 and played FBI agent Roger Hardy in the classic Twin Peaks.
Williams became a collaborator of director John Frankenheimer, doing 52 Pick-Up in 1986, Against the Wall in 1994, George Wallace in 1997 and Reindeer Games in 2000.
Williams is survived by his daughter Jamey Phillips and sister Sondra Pugh.
