Disbelief and an outpouring of sadness has followed news of the death of Cory Monteith, the charming but troubled “Glee” actor who was found dead Saturday in a Vancouver hotel room.
PHOTOS: Remembering Cory Monteith: 1982-2013
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic news,” the show and Fox said in a joint 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.”
An original cast member, Monteith portrayed jock-turned-glee member Finn Hudson on the Fox hit, about a group of singing high school students in Ohio. The Canada native played the role of leading man — both musically and, often, romantically — to Lea Michele’s quirky leading lady Rachel Berry. Off the set, the pair had been dating and were recently spotted at the 12th Annual Chrysalis Butterfly Ball on June 8.
“We ask that everyone kindly respect Lea’s privacy during this devastating time,” a rep for the actress told People. [Added 12:00 p.m. EDT]
With ‘Glee,’ Cory Monteith Made History On The Hot 100
Monteith’s fellow originals — Dianna Agron, Chris Colfer, Kevin McHale, Michele, Amber Riley, Mark Salling and Jenna Ushkowitz, plus early recurring stars Heather Morris and Naya Rivera as well as “faculty” members Matthew Morrison, Jayma Mays and Jane Lynch — have remained largely silent on the actor’s death. However, several cast members as well as guest actors have chimed in on Twitter.
going through a million memories and emotions today. ill love you always Brother Cory.
— Mark Salling (@MarkSalling) July 14, 2013
At this time, please send nothing but love and light. This tragic news still doesn’t seem real to me. I love you Cory.
— Harry Shum Jr (@iharryshum) July 14, 2013
I HAVE NO WORDS! MY HEART IS BROKEN CORY WAS NOT ONLY A HELL OF A FRIEND HE WAS ONE AMAZING MEN THAT I WILL HOLD CLOSE TO MY HEART FOREVER
— Dot-Marie Jones (@dotmariejones) July 14, 2013
I AM BLESSED TO HAVE WORKED WITH HIM AND LOVE HIM SO MUCH! MY HEART IS WITH HID FAMILY AND OUR WHOLE GLEE FAMILY! I LOVE YOU ALL!
— Dot-Marie Jones (@dotmariejones) July 14, 2013
I am so saddened to hear about Cory. He was such a great guy/Super-kind &warm. A tragic loss. My heart goes out to all his friends & family.
— Josh Sussman (@JoshSussman) July 14, 2013
Cory was always so nice to me. I have so many good memories. pic.twitter.com/XYw4S8gMDH
— Lauren Potter (@TheLaurenPotter) July 14, 2013
The guy I shot my first acting scene with. The nicest guy I’ve met. Can’t believe it.
— Damian Mc Ginty (@damianmcginty) July 14, 2013
Family, I wish you could give me your pain and heartbreak and take my unconditional love to fill in its place.
— Vanessa Lengies (@littlelengies) July 14, 2013
RIP CoryMontieth. You will be loved. Always.
— Kristin Chenoweth (@KChenoweth) July 14, 2013
While I only met him briefly on set, I remember him to be an extremely sweet guy. Tragic. RIP Cory.
— josh groban (@joshgroban) July 14, 2013
OMG!! My Cory…
— iqbal theba (@iqbaltheba) July 14, 2013
We talked about how lucky he felt to be alive-and sober. We talked about playing drums. Glad i knew you Cory. pic.twitter.com/1Ulq0nYBGz
— John Stamos (@JohnStamos) July 14, 2013
How sad to read about Cory Monteith passing away. What a shame. He was a lovely, kind, talented guy and will be missed.
— Neil Patrick Harris (@ActuallyNPH) July 14, 2013
I am overwhelmed by the news of Cory. Sweet, kind, so filled with joy. One of the dearest souls I ever met. My heart to his family and love.
— Stephen Tobolowsky (@Tobolowsky) July 14, 2013
What I will remember about Cory Monteith is that he was talented, funny and absolutely kindhearted. We lost a gentleman. RIP
— Cheyenne Jackson (@cheyennejackson) July 14, 2013