Former Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air actor John Wesley has died at the age of 72.

John’s family told Variety that he had died following a long battle with multiple myeloma.

In a statement, his manager Gerry Pass said: “John Wesley was a gift to the world, for his kindness and grace are immortalised in his works of theatre, TV and film. 

“I am heartbroken to have lost a dear friend today.”

John was best known for his role in the 1990s sitcom The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air, in which he starred opposite Will Smith as Dr Hoover.

In his episode, John’s character was invited to the Banks family’s home after it emerged that Ashley was being bullied.

Born in Louisiana in 1947, John went on to study at the University of California, San Diego and the University of San Diego, where he earned degrees.

His first major role was in the sequel to Missing in Action, subtitled The Beginning, in 1985, in which he starred alongside Chuck Norris.

Among his other acting roles were a regular part in the Dirty Dancing TV series and guest role in Frasier and Melrose Place, as well as multiple appearances on stage.

Last year, he appeared in the TV series NCIS and the festive drama Holly Day.

Variety reports that he is survived by his wife Jenny Houston, daughters Kimiko Kamiel Houston and Kinshasha Houston and stepson Kyler Richie, as well as his seven grandchildren, nine siblings and his mother Hazel Baskin.