Jason Priestley/Instagram/PA90210 star Jason Priestley has joined the many people sharing tributes to Luke Perry on social media with a heartbreaking message.
Perry tragically died at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Burbank, California on Monday (March 4), five days after suffering a massive stroke.
His representative Arnold Robinson explained the 52-year-old was surrounded by his children Jack and Sophie, as well as fiancée Wendy Madison Bauer, and his mother, step-father, ex-wife, brother and sister.
Warner Bros. TelevisionIn a statement, Robinson added:
The family appreciates the outpouring of support and prayers that have been extended to Luke from around the world, and respectfully request privacy in this time of great mourning.
Tributes have been pouring in for the actor on social media, with co-stars and fans sharing heartfelt messages and memories of Perry.
Priestley posted a picture of himself and Perry to Instagram today, with a moving message detailing how much his longtime friend meant to him.
He wrote:
It’s taken me a couple of days to figure out how to write this… My dear friend of 29 years, Luke Perry, was one of those truly special people who really cared…
Luke was not only a star, he was an incredibly bright light that was extinguished far too soon… and that is why I, and so many others, are in so much pain today…
The caption continued:
If you had the good fortune to know Luke, or to have ever crossed his path, I know you are sad today as well… the candle that burns twice as bright only burns for half as long… you burned oh, so brightly Luke…
Goodnight Sweet Prince.
Most recently, Perry had been playing the role of Fred Andrews in CW’s Riverdale. The show halted production following the star’s death but resumed filming yesterday, having vowed to dedicate every new episode to the former cast member.
Riverdale co-star Cami Mendes also shared a fond tribute to Perry on Instagram today, writing:
he took care of us all. an authentic man who took pleasure in offering us his guidance and wisdom. his presence was healing; he had the ability to make you feel comfortable and at ease within seconds of seeing him.
i will never forget the collective shock and distress we experienced when the news broke on set. we lost a dear friend. my heart hurts for his family and anybody who had the pleasure of knowing him. rest in peace, luke.
although you’re no longer around to wrap me in the warmth of your hug, i can still remember what it felt like. whenever i think of you, i will remember that feeling.
Luke will clearly be missed by many; our thoughts are with his family and friends at this tough time.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.
Emily Brown first began delivering important news stories aged just 13, when she launched her career with a paper round. She graduated with a BA Hons in English Language in the Media from Lancaster University, and went on to become a freelance writer and blogger. Emily contributed to The Sunday Times Travel Magazine and Student Problems before becoming a journalist at UNILAD, where she works on breaking news as well as longer form features.