Tributes Are Pouring In For Hollywood’s “Ultimate Badass” Bill Paxton

This one hurts. Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actor Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications during surgery. He was 61 years old.

“It is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed,” read a statement released by his family. “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. Bill’s passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable.”

Paxton rose to prominence in the 1980s thanks to his iconic supporting roles in films such as The Terminator, Weird Science and Aliens.

He also appeared in Twister, Apollo 13 and Titanic, and more recently in films including Nightcrawler and Edge of Tomorrow. On television he is best remembered for playing the lead role in HBO’s Big Love, receiving three Golden Globe nominations over the course of the show’s five season run.

Since news of Paxton’s passing hit the internet, tributes have poured in from prominent actors and filmmakers, hailing him not just as a great actor, but a kind and genuine human being.

Director James Cameron, who worked frequently with Paxton, released a statement calling him “a good man, a great actor and a creative dynamo,” adding that “I hope that amid the gaudy din of Oscar night, people will take a moment to remember this wonderful man, not just for all the hours of joy he brought to us with his vivid screen presence, but for the great human that he was. The world is a lesser place for his passing, and I will profoundly miss him.”

A number of other Hollywood icons took to Twitter to share their memories of Paxton and his remarkable body of work.

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

Bill Paxton was hands down one of the greatest guys that I have ever met. I feel lucky to have called him my friend. Bill, I love you. RIP.

— Aaron Paul (@aaronpaul_8) February 26, 2017

Bill Paxton was, simply, a wonderful man. A wonderful man… Hanx.

— Tom Hanks (@tomhanks) 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

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

I am so saddened by Bill Paxton's passing. Had the pleasure of meeting him a few times in recent years and he was truly the loveliest guy.

— edgarwright (@edgarwright) February 26, 2017

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Feature image via Julie Benz/Twitter