The sudden death of Canadian actor Alan Thicke caught friends and industry colleagues off guard.
But everyone from Hollywood stars to NHL teams were quick to pay tribute to the Ontario-born star who rose to prominence for his role in the 1980s classic Growing Pains.
One of Thicke’s longtime friends, Jeffrey Latimer, told CTV’s Your Morning about his experience working with him on the 2012 musical “Queen for a Day.”
“He was incredible with the cast,” Latimer said of Thicke’s starring role in the play he co-wrote. “He was funny. He was fun. He worked with all of the artists.”
Latimer also fondly recalled visiting Thicke’s beloved ranch and spending hours just talking with him in the backyard.
“He was just a really good guy,” Latimer said Wednesday. “He was so Canadian.”
Latimer said one thing fans should know about the star is that he loved music. He said Thicke was an amazing composer and often collaborated with his son Robin Thicke.
“He loved being in the studio, which I think was fascinating,” Latimer said.
I'll miss a lot about @Alan_Thicke, but his songwriting particularly defined my childhood: https://t.co/QlwX7cD1Qfhttps://t.co/G463Xiz0Hh
— Lin-Manuel Miranda (@Lin_Manuel) December 14, 2016
I am shocked & devastated at the news of Alan Thicke's death. A friend for many years, he wrote & produced so many of my TV Specials.......
— Anne Murray (@annemurray1) December 14, 2016
RIP Alan Thicke. I grew up watching him and got to know him through Robin. He was always so kind to me. So sad to hear about his passing.
— John Legend (@johnlegend) December 14, 2016
The Canadian actor died from a heart attack while he was playing hockey with his son. Thicke’s well-known love of the game and his connection to both the Edmonton Oilers and Wayne Gretzky were apparent in the many tributes that poured in for him online.
Janet & I are deeply saddened to hear of Alan's passing. He was a wonderful man,father,husband and friend.He will be missed by all. RIP Alan
— Wayne Gretzky (@OfficialGretzky) December 14, 2016
The NHL family is sad to learn of the passing of longtime hockey fan Alan Thicke. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/5ADyWRksuf
— NHL (@NHL) December 14, 2016
RIP to one of the great ones, Alan Thicke. pic.twitter.com/LvlU13s23h
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) December 14, 2016
Alan Thicke LOVED hockey! He also was a man with a huge heart. He was on the ice when his heart attacked him. RIP Alan...
— LeVar Burton (@levarburton) December 14, 2016
Members of Thicke's family posted memories of him online.
Today I lost my best friend and my idol, and the world lost one of it's finest. You are a legend and I love you Pops. Until next time. pic.twitter.com/ZQd2NZMTx4
— Carter Thicke (@CarterThicke) December 14, 2016
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his condolences to Thicke's family on Twitter on Wednesday.
Alan Thicke was proudly Canadian, never forgetting his roots as he soared to stardom. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) December 14, 2016
Hollywood stars, singers and former co-stars also paid tribute to the Canadian.
I just can't find the words right now. pic.twitter.com/vM28SLy9Rb
— Tracey Gold (@TheTraceyGold) December 14, 2016
.@Alan_Thicke was always so gracious & kind to me. A very very cool guy. Rest In Peace my friend. God bless this great Canadian!
— Joel McHale (@joelmchale) December 14, 2016
I loved #AlanThicke He was a great Canadian and friend. Funny and kind. My condolences to his family. #RIPAlanThicke
— Caroline Rhea (@CarolineRhea) December 14, 2016
Very sad to hear about the sudden passing of Alan Thicke. Worked with him just over a year ago and he was just lovely.
— Gerry Dee (@gerrydee) December 14, 2016RIP Alan Thicke. We skated side by side for years. Say hello to Gordie and The Rocket for me. Our Canadian Mounties sketch @jimmykimmel pic.twitter.com/YE5SiFRtsf
— Dave Coulier (@DaveCoulier) December 14, 2016Saddened over the loss of my friend Alan. Condolences to his family.
— William Shatner (@WilliamShatner) December 14, 2016
I'm shocked to hear about Allan Thicke. He was a good man who gave me some big breaks in my early days. I'll miss you buddy.
— Howie Mandel (@howiemandel) December 14, 2016
My heart aches right now. My good buddy Alan Thicke has passed away. Can't believe it. Can't believe it. pic.twitter.com/gwIFVnYQh4
— Joe Carter (@JoeCarter_29) December 14, 2016
sad to learn of Alan Thicke's passing. he was a great friend over the years. thoughts & prayers to his family.
— Ryan Seacrest (@RyanSeacrest) December 14, 2016
Thicke had recently performed in an episode in the Netflix series Fuller House, and cast members were quick to pay tribute.
So sad is the passing of Alan Thicke. Such a good husband, father, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed. Rest in peace dear Alan.
— bob saget (@bobsaget) December 14, 2016