Director John Singleton died on Monday after suffering a stroke almost two weeks ago, his publicist Shannon Barr told the AP.

Several reports that Singleton had died were published online Monday morning, and fans began posting tributes. But Barr said those reports are inaccurate at the time. Barr said that Singleton had his life support removed.

Hours later, Barr gave official word of Singleton's passing.

Singleton, 51, suffered what was characterized in court documents filed last week as "a major stroke" on April 17 .

Singleton, the first black filmmaker nominated for the best director Oscar for his 1991 drama "Boyz n the Hood," has also directed such other movies as "Poetic Justice," "Higher Learning," "2 Fast 2 Furious" and the 2000 remake of "Shaft."

A show he co-created for the FX Network, "Snowfall," was renewed last year for a third season.

Since news of his stroke, Singleton's colleagues in Hollywood have offered their support and well wishes.

On Friday, "Grey's Anatomy" and "Scandal" creator Shonda Rhimes shared a story about Singleton calling her up with inspiring words while she was in film school.

"John did not know me at all. But someone at USC had told him I was talented and he was kindly calling to offer me some words of encouragement," she wrote. "He told me to keep writing. I never forgot it. Praying for him and for his family now."