'Everything is happening so fast'
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 yesterday 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.’
Following the news of his death, Luke's daughter Sophie has released a heartbreaking statement to her Instagram alongside a photo of the two of them.
'A lot has happened in this past week for me. Everything is happening so fast,' she posted to social media. 'I made it back from Malawi just in time to be here with my family, And in the past 24 hours I have received an overwhelming amount of love and support.'
Sophie continued: 'I cannot individually respond to the hundreds of beautiful and heartfelt messages, but I see them, and appreciate you all for sending positivity to my family and I. I'm not really sure what to say or do in this situation, it's something you aren't ever given a lesson on how to handle, especially when it's all happening in the public eye. So bear with me and know that I am grateful for all the love. Just, being grateful quietly.'
Among those voicing their sadness at the tragic news was the Riverdale cast, where Perry played the loveable character Fred Andrews for the past three seasons.
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.’
Our thoughts are with Luke's loved ones.
