The death of acclaimed actor Philip Seymour Hoffman drew expressions of sorrow and condolence from a wide range of personalities, fans and high-profile film stars, many of whom worked alongside the 46-year-old at some point during his illustrious movie career.
In a statement, film director Mike Nichols said there were “no words” for the loss. “He was too great and we’re too shattered."
News that Hoffman’s death may have been caused by an apparent drug overdose prompted others, including British comedian Russell Brand, to issue a reminder on the damage substance abuse and addiction can cause.
Here's what some celebrities and fans were saying on Twitter:
Philip Seymour Hoffman was a brilliant, talented man. The news this morning is shocking and sad. My heart goes out to his loved ones.
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) February 2, 2014
Dear Philip, a beautiful beautiful soul. For the most sensitive among us the noise can be too much. Bless your heart. ;^{
— Jim Carrey (@JimCarrey) February 2, 2014
Philip Seymour Hoffman -- he was the best of the best -- seems impossible that he's gone. http://t.co/gxTOXdFgcJ
— James Franco (@JamesFrancoTV) February 2, 2014
Damn,We Lost Another Great Artist. Phillip Seymour Hoffman.This Picture Is From 25TH HOUR. God Bless… http://t.co/VmIYL5576n
— Spike Lee (@SpikeLee) February 2, 2014
Such shocking & sad news. RIP Philip Seymour Hoffman. One of the greatest actors of a generation and a sweet, funny & humble man.
— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) February 2, 2014
the loss is real & personal when the talent is that uncommonly large. Each time he appeared in a scene your brain went to a higher ground.
— james l. brooks (@canyonjim) February 2, 2014
I am sad on so many levels about the loss of Philip Seymour Hoffman. One of the greats. Losing him this way is absolutely tragic.
— Evan Rachel Wood (@evanrachelwood) February 2, 2014
Love and prayers for Philip Seymour Hoffman's family. Addiction kills, I hope all who need it have access to abstinence based recovery.
— Russell Brand (@rustyrockets) February 2, 2014
Forever in our hearts, forever Plutarch, forever our Game Maker. .|||. #PhilipSeymourHoffman #RestInPeace pic.twitter.com/dC70dx38h6
— Silver Spoon (@HomeMadeSilver) February 2, 2014
His role as Lester Bangs in Almost Famous was my favourite. #PhilipSeymourHoffman
— Dan Morberg (@danmorberg) February 2, 2014
Rest in Peace #PhilipSeymourHoffman My favourite role was in #TalentedMrRipley movie, like #FreddieMiles pic.twitter.com/Wrew5iBify
— The_OvertonesLA (@the_overtonesLA) February 2, 2014
Director Anton Corbjin, who worked with Hoffman in his upcoming film "A Most Wanted Man," issued the following statement:
"He was not only the most gifted actor I ever worked with (and judging by the legacy he leaves behind I am certain I share this with most if not all directors who were fortunate enough to work with him), he had also become an incredibly inspiring and supportive friend. I am so terribly sad as I find it impossible to comprehend what happened today and to collect my thoughts properly. I have to think about Mimi and the children and I wish them much strength coping with the loss of this truly great man as a father and partner."
With files from The Associated Press