'Rest in love'
It was announced this week that US actor Luke Perry had died aged 52.
Perry, known predominantly for his roles in Beverly Hills, 90210 and more recently Riverdale, suffered a ‘massive stroke’ last week leading to his hospitalisation, and his publicist Arnold Robinson confirmed just days ago that the actor had sadly passed away.
‘He was surrounded by his children Jack and Sophie, fiancé Wendy Madison Bauer, ex-wife Minnie Sharp, mother Ann Bennett, step-father Steve Bennett, brother Tom Perry, sister Amy Coder, and other close family and friends,’ the statement continued, going on to thank the ‘outpouring of support and prayers that have been extended to Luke from around the world.’
In a tribute to the ‘beloved member of the Riverdale, Warner Bros and CW family’, Riverdale’s executive producers announced in a statement ‘Luke was everything you would hope he would be: an incredibly caring, consummate professional with a giant heart, and a true friend to all.’
The statement continued: ‘A father figure and mentor to the show’s young cast, Luke was incredibly generous, and he infused the set with love and kindness. Our thoughts are with Luke’s family during this most difficult time.’
The Riverdale cast were the first to post emotional tributes to the actor, from Cole Sprouse and Lili Reinhart to Skeet Ulrich and Madchen Amick, but two who were noticeably absent from the crowd were Camila Mendes and KJ Apa, two of the cast members who worked closely with him.
Apa, Luke Perry’s onscreen son posted a photo of him today, alongside the caption ‘Rest in Love bro.’
Camila Mendes also broke her silence on the tragic news, posting a photo of her and Perry dancing alongside an emotional caption.
‘He took care of us all,’ she wrote about him. ’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.’
She continued: ‘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.
Our thoughts are with Luke’s loved ones.
