John Hurt, an absolutely incredible actor, passed away last night at the age of 77 years old. He’d been battling pancreatic cancer for a few years.
But instead of focusing on the sadness of his death, let’s take some time to focus on his career.
And goodness, what a career it was.
John was perhaps best known for starring in The Elephant Man, but he also had notable roles in movies like Alien and V for Vendetta.
Many people would also recognize him from his work in the Harry Potter movies — he played Ollivander, the dedicated wandmaker.
But in addition to making so many wonderful films, he was also, as we’re learning, a great person.
Check out many celebrities who’ve taken the time to pay tribute to this man:
Elijah Wood
“Very sad to hear of John Hurt’s passing. It was such an honor to have watched you work, sir.”
J.K. Rowling
“So very sad to hear that the immensely talented and deeply beloved John Hurt has died. My thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Sharon Stone
“God speed to John Hurt, a legendary actor and good human being.”
Kumail Nanjiani
“Oh no. RIP John Hurt. He made everything he was in better. I was looking forward to seeing many more performances.”
Kiefer Sutherland
“My deepest sympathies to John Hurt’s family, friends and fans. He was a dear friend.”
Mel Brooks
“It was terribly sad today to learn of John Hurt’s passing. He was a truly magnificent talent. No one could have played The Elephant Man more memorably. He carried that film into cinematic immortality. He will be sorely missed.”
Chris Evans
“John Hurt was one of the most powerful, giving, and effortlessly real actors I’ve ever worked with. Remarkable human being. U will be missed.”
Debra Messing
“What a magnificent actor. A true artist.”
Mia Farrow
“John Hurt, one of the finest actors of our time, and the loveliest person. This is terrible news. So, so sad.”
Dominic Monaghan
“Dance until your feet hurt. laugh until your face hurts. Act until your John Hurt. #RIPJohnHurt”
Kevin Smith
“Rest in Peace to the actor genius #JohnHurt. Most folks know him from ALIEN but I loved him as Sir Richard Rich from A Man for All Seasons.”
Bonnie Wright
“John Hurt. What an acting legend. Rest in peace dear Sir. Wand shopping won’t be the same without you.”
Stephen Fry
“Oh no. What terrible news. We’ve lost #JohnHurt as great on the stage, small screen and big. A great man & great friend of Norfolk & #NCFC.”
Jamie Bell
“I will forever cherish the memories I have of the incomparable John Hurt. A brilliant actor & a beautiful soul.”
Jason Priestley
“RIP my dear friend John Hurt. You were an awesome talent, an amazing co-star, and a better friend…you will be missed by all who knew you.â€Â
David Alan Grier
“Rest n Peace John Hurt, I had the honor to get to work with and know this wonderful man, and incredible actor. Your spirit will b missed.”
Darren Criss
“John Hurt was always on my actors-I-wish-I-could-be-more-like list. And he will continue to always be. Wonderful work & a phenomenal career.”
Stephen Colbert
“John Hurt’s Richard Rich in “A Man for All Seasons”- a paragon of heartbreaking human weakness & model for many of my characters. #But4Wales”
Liev Schreiber
“RIP #JohnHurt One of the most extraordinary actors I have ever had the pleasure to know.”
Guillermo del Toro
“John Hurt was nothing if not movingly human. Loyal, loving and incredibly intelligent and kind. He was family.”