Several of Hollywood’s biggest names shared parting tributes to Fred Willard on Saturday, after the longtime comedian, best known for his work in “Best in Show,” “Anchorman” and “Everybody Loves Raymond,” died at 86. His daughter, Hope, said he died of natural causes.
Jimmy Kimmel tweeted there was “no man sweeter or funnier” than Willard, adding “we were so lucky to know Fred Willard and will miss his many visits.”
Christina Applegate, who starred alongside Willard in “Anchorman,” tweeted she was “gutted” by the news. She added his “immense talent and kindness will never be forgotten.”
Actresss Jamie Lee Curtis thanked Willard for providing “deep belly laughs,” while “Bridesmaids” director Paul Feig called Willard “one of the funniest, nicest, sweetest, purest souls” he’d ever known.
A number of other prominent actors, directors and comedy icons, including Judd Apatow, Harry Shearer and Michael McKean, also shared their memories of Willard. Shearer and McKean both worked with Willard on “This is Spinal Tap,” Rob Reiner’s 1984 landmark mockumentary.
(Excerpt) Read more in: The Wrap