The stars are coming forward to pay tribute to Rue McClanahan, the TV legend and “The Golden Girls” star who died early on Thursday.
“Rue was a close and dear friend,” Betty White, Rue’s “Golden Girls” co-star, said in a statement to Access Hollywood. “I treasured our relationship. It hurts more than I even thought it would, if that’s even possible.”
Another “The Golden Girls” collaborator also offered fond memories of the star.
“When I worked on ‘The Golden Girls’, my favorite character to write for was Blanche Devereaux. In the hands of lesser actresses Blanche’s vanity and sexual appetite would have been off-putting. But in Rue’s brilliant hands, that character became one of the most beloved in the history of T.V.,” Marc Cherry said in a statement to Access. “Rue’s kindness, generosity and enormous talent will be sorely missed.”
Beyond Betty and Marc, a number of stars took to Twitter on Thursday to pay their respects…
“Sad news to report…Golden Girls actress Rue McClanahan died this morning of a stroke. Her family and friends are in our thoughts.” — Larry King
“Rest in peace my dear dear Rue :(” -Jason Dottley
“Oh no! I’m tearing up! Rue McLanahan has died. She was my favorite Golden Girl. It’s a sad, sad day. :((((” — Rose McGowan
“Ah beloved Blanche passes away – Rue McClanahan RIP. She was so lovely and such a spitfire. It’s just Rose now.” — Marlee Matlin
“RIP rue mcclanahan. sending love and prayers to her loved ones…..” — Mandy Moore
“RIP… This makes me sad. ;-(” — Jay Manuel
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