
Anthony Johnson
ActingAbout Anthony Johnson
Anthony Johnson (February 1, 1966 – September 6, 2021), sometimes credited as A. J. Johnson, was an American actor and comedian. He was best known for his role as "Ezal” in the 1995 comedy film Friday. Born in Compton, California, his father Eddie Smith was a stuntman and a co-founder of the Black Stuntmen's Association. Johnson had credited his father for helping him enter the film industry, by getting him to work in film productions. He had also credited the comedian Robin Harris for helping him earlier on in his career as a stand-up comedian and giving him another chance even when he was jeered for his bad performance. Johnson began acting in his early twenties. In 1990, he landed a starring role as E.Z.E. in House Party, after which he started doing stand-up in bars in Los Angeles. He later appeared in Lethal Weapon 3 as a drug dealer and in Menace II Society. His biggest role was in the 1995 comedy Friday, as Ezal, a crackhead and thief. He also appeared in Panther, The Players Club, B*A*P*S, I Got the Hook-Up, Def Jam's How to Be a Player and Repos, and in rap videos: in Dr. Dre's "Dre Day" (1992), he played Sleazy-E, a parody of Eazy-E, and he appeared again as Sleazy-E in the video for Eazy-E's "Real Muthaphuckkin G's" (1993), this time being assaulted.
Anthony Johnson Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of Anthony Johnson reflects a career marked by diverse experimentation. Across 29 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of Anthony Johnson's work falls within the Comedy genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 14% of Anthony Johnson's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains Menace II Society, which stands out as a key performance.
Best Anthony Johnson Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Anthony Johnson's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie Anthony Johnson has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Boosters LA | Kenny | Flop | Similar → |
| 2019 | I Got the Hook Up 2 | Blue | Average | Similar → |
| 2018 | Hey, Mr. Postman! | Cousin Tino | Average | Similar → |
| 2018 | 5K1 | Wash Manager | Flop | Similar → |
| 2017 | Candy | Lollipop | Flop | Similar → |
| 2012 | Recognize | Mouse | Flop | Similar → |
| 2006 | Master P's Hood Stars of Comedy | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 2006 | Repos | Tick Tack | Flop | Similar → |
| 2004 | Hittin' It! | Cousin E (as A.J. Johnson) | Flop | Similar → |
| 2004 | Roscoe's House of Chicken n Waffles | Roscoe | Flop | Similar → |
| 2004 | Sweet Oranges | Himself | Flop | Similar → |
| 2003 | Sweet Hideaway | Coach | Flop | Similar → |
| 2002 | On the Edge | Hank Conrad | Flop | Similar → |
| 2001 | O | Dell | Average | Similar → |
| 2000 | Baller Blockin' | Fast Eddie | Hit | Similar → |
| 2000 | Hot Boyz | Pee Wee | Flop | Similar → |
| 1999 | Foolish | Himself | Average | Similar → |
| 1998 | I Got the Hook-Up | Blue | Flop | Similar → |
| 1998 | Woo | Doorman | Flop | Similar → |
| 1998 | The Players Club | L'il Man | Average | Similar → |
| 1997 | How to Be a Player | Spootie | Average | Similar → |
| 1997 | B.A.P.S | James | Flop | Similar → |
| 1996 | The Great White Hype | Sultan’s Valet | Flop | Similar → |
| 1995 | Panther | Sabu | Average | Similar → |
| 1995 | Friday | Ezal | Hit | Similar → |
| 1994 | House Party 3 | Butcher | Flop | Similar → |
| 1993 | Menace II Society | Tony | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1992 | Lethal Weapon 3 | Drug Dealer | Hit | Similar → |
| 1990 | House Party | E.Z.E. | Average | Similar → |
Anthony Johnson - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Anthony Johnson?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Anthony Johnson is "Menace II Society" with a rating of 7.5/10.
How many movies has Anthony Johnson acted in?
Anthony Johnson has been featured in at least 29 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Anthony Johnson?
Other notable films include "Friday", "Baller Blockin'", and "Lethal Weapon 3".




