Just hours before Hollywood's elite hit the red carpet to celebrate the biggest night honoring actors and the films they star in, news broke about the death of one of their own.
As we reported, Bill Paxton died at the age of 61 due to complications from surgery and so stars made to their way to the award show, on what was supposed to be such a celebratory night, with heavy hearts.
"A loving husband and father, Bill began his career in Hollywood working on films in the art department and went on to have an illustrious career spanning four decades as a beloved and prolific actor and filmmaker," a rep for his family said in a statement. "Bill’s passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable. We ask to please respect the family’s wish for privacy as they mourn the loss of their adored husband and father.”
The breaking news was so fresh and on the minds of so many that when Jennifer Aniston mentioned Paxton prior to the In Memoriam package she got choked up and most of the audience was also teary eyed.
But before the Oscars even aired, tons of Paxton's friends and colleagues took to social media to react to, mourn and pay tribute to this great actor.
Devastated by the sudden loss of my close friend and one of the finest actors in the business, Bill Paxton. Renaissance man, raconteur and
— Rob Lowe (@RobLowe) February 26, 2017
uniquely American national treasure. His filmography speaks for itself. His friendship was a blessing. My love to Bunny, James and Lydia.
— Rob Lowe (@RobLowe) February 26, 2017
In his memory, on this Oscar Sunday, watch "One False Move" or "A Simple Plan" to see this lovely leading man, at his finest.
— Rob Lowe (@RobLowe) February 26, 2017
Nooooo. Bill Paxton is gone. Such a funny, talented, loving human. Louise & the children & family my ❤& support 2 u. #truelies pic.twitter.com/d4zleWdOrR
— Jamie Lee Curtis (@jamieleecurtis) February 26, 2017
Bill Paxton could play any role, but he was best at being Bill - a great human being with a huge heart. My thoughts are with his family.
— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) February 26, 2017
Rest In Peace my sweet friend. pic.twitter.com/1QC7pzDZPz
— Julie Benz (@juliebenz) February 26, 2017
Bill Paxton was, simply, a wonderful man. A wonderful man... Hanx.
— Tom Hanks (@tomhanks) February 26, 2017
Some of my favorite memories are of floating around in a tiny vessel with big hearted,hilarious,brilliant Bill Paxton. Sad day.
— Kevin Bacon (@kevinbacon) February 26, 2017
Really bummed to hear about Bill Paxton this morning. Great guy, energy and always smilin'. Strength to the Paxton family. #restinlove
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) February 26, 2017
He made this movie great--he acted his heart out. What a talented man. My thoughts are with his family.
Nai-post ni Helen Hunt noong Linggo, Pebrero 26, 2017
Crushing. #RIPBillPaxton A gr8 talent & spirit. His passion contributed so much 2 #Apollo13 & all his wrk. We'll miss the hell out of U Bill https://t.co/j2Khv6fmCP
— Ron Howard (@RealRonHoward) February 26, 2017
One of the kindest souls that ever was. We shared some very happy moments on Apollo 13. This is truly devastating. Love to his family-- https://t.co/Noa63hxMhY
— Bryce Dallas Howard (@BryceDHoward) February 26, 2017
So profoundly sorry to hear that #BillPaxton has died. My family & I were such fans; we send our condolences and deepest sympathy to his.
— Bette Midler (@BetteMidler) February 26, 2017
The loss of Bill Paxton is such awful news! A wonderful actor who was as much fun to work with as he was to watch onscreen. #Heartbreaking pic.twitter.com/k6fWvMJ6kC
— Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) February 26, 2017
So saddened by Bill Paxton's passing. Worked with him in '88. Sending good thoughts to his family. He was a real deal movie actor. #Respect
— Ben Stiller (@RedHourBen) February 26, 2017
Very sad to hear about Bill Paxton. His talent, enthusiasm and energy were unique. Our thoughts are with his family pic.twitter.com/W4IVuILHxv
— Cary Elwes (@Cary_Elwes) February 26, 2017
Bill Paxton was notoriously one of the nicest people in the industry. He also gave us some of the all-time most iconic movie moments.
— Jordan Peele (@JordanPeele) February 26, 2017
Very sad today to hear the passing of Bill Paxton. My heart goes out to his family & his many friends. Rest In Peace my friend. God bless pic.twitter.com/3lOJ5G3v8p
— Gary Sinise (@GarySinise) February 26, 2017
You were a great friend to me, Bill. AND one of the finest actors to share a set with. Sending so much love to Bill Paxton's family.
— Charlize Theron (@CharlizeAfrica) February 26, 2017
I am stunned & saddened at the passing of Bill Paxton. I just worked with him recently. A warm and beautiful soul and a talented actor. RIP
— Lou Diamond Phillips (@LouDPhillips) February 26, 2017
And in honor of his iconic role in the blockbuster Twister, a few storm chasers paid tribute to Paxton in the most fitting way.
Storm chasers and weather nerds are awesome. Tribute for Bill Paxton. pic.twitter.com/1evkrZKdbl
— Amber Leigh Turner (@amberlturner) February 26, 2017
There has been a critical error on your website.<\/p>
Learn more about debugging in WordPress.<\/a><\/p>","data":{"status":500},"additional_errors":[]}