Hollywood is mourning one of if its own as news broke early Sunday morning that “Glee” star Cory Monteith, best known for his performance as Finn Hudson on Fox’s song-and-dance series, was found dead in his hotel room. He was 31.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic news,” said Fox, series producer 20th Century Fox TV and “Glee” executive producers in a statement. “Cory was an exceptional talent and an even more exceptional person. He was a true joy to work with and we will all miss him tremendously. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.”
Celebrities, including many who had worked with Monteith, took to Twitter to express their condolences.
“Speechless. And for the worst reason,” wrote Taylor Swift, who had been romantically linked to the actor back in 2010.
“Hairspray” helmer Adam Shankman, who directed a handful of “Glee” episodes, tweeted an image of himself, Monteith and Lea Michele holding a script for “The Rocky Horror Glee Show” episode, with the words: “I will always cherish you in my heart. Thank you for so many wonderful days. I love you CM …”
Broadway actor Cheyene Jackson, who made several guest appearances on the show as rival glee club coach Dustin Goolsby, wrote: “What I will remember about Cory Monteith is that he was talented, funny and absolutely kindhearted. We lost a gentleman. RIP.”
Damian McGinty, who played fellow glee club kid Rory Flanagan, shared similar sentiments. “The guy I shot my first acting scene with,” he remembered. “The nicest guy I’ve met. Can’t believe it.”
Elsewhere, “Vampire Diaries” star and fellow Canadian Nina Dobrev mourned the young actor’s death. “I’m gutted. Shocked and saddened to hear the news, my heart goes out to Cory’s family and friends,” she tweeted. “Lets respect their space as they grieve.”
“I can’t fully process this news,” wrote “2 Broke Girls” star Kat Dennings. “Tragic, tragic loss of a young, promising, talented man. Cory Monteith, rest in peace.”
“I just heard about Cory Monteith.. Rest in peace, everyone close to him and affected by this loss you’re in my prayers,” wrote Chloe Grace Moretz.
“Cory Monteith, may your spirit be at peace, and may you fly with the angels…” Rihanna wrote. “Heartbreaking, my prayers are with all of his loved ones!”
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