Will Smith's co-star in Emancipation, actor Cedric Jones dies at 46

Emancipation famed Cedric Jones died at the age of 46 on October 16. His business website, Beastie Boxing, broke the news on social media on Tuesday. The actor is survived by his wife Barbie Jones and their three children. The circumstances of his death are being kept private at this time out of respect for his family. However, his business firm planned a BEASTIE Beach Memorial Run and a Memorial Beach Workout to honor him.

Beastie Boxing’s eulogy for Cedric Jones

The post shared on Beastie Boxing’s official Instagram read, “Cedric was a loving father, devoted husband, caring son, brother, community leader, and incredible friend who inspired others. He genuinely wanted everyone to become the best version of themselves. He was a gift.”

Cedric Jones' brief acting career

Jones made appearances in The Magnificent Seven and The Terminal List with Chris Pratt. Additionally, he appears in the movies Fight Your Way Out and Southpaw. Before he got into fitness and opened Beastie Boxing as a gym in Manhattan Beach, Jones lived on the streets of Compton, California.

The Macon, Georgia, native and personal trainer described himself as a "theatre kid" at the age of seven in an interview with Pulse Magazine for the Winter 2023 issue. 

With just $5,000, Cedric went to Los Angeles from a performing arts academy in Atlanta, where he earned an associate degree in dance. He spent a year living on the streets before becoming successful in boxing and Hollywood, landing a part in the Will Smith starrer Emancipation in 2022.