On Thursday, the entire world was shocked to learn that the legendary Cicely Tyson passed away at the age of 96.
Her work has inspired generations, and her fellow peers were sure to speak out to express their shock, but also thank Cicely for her inspiration and contributions to the culture.
Tributes immediately started to pour in following the news of her passing, actors and actresses such as Tiffany Haddish, Lance Gross, Zendaya, Martin Lawrence, Taraji P. Henson, Michael B. Jordan, and many others spoke out as they shared some beautiful words about her life and career.
Some of Hollywood’s biggest names that worked closely with Cicely Tyson also spoke out as well.
Tyler Perry said, “This one brought me to my knees! She was the grandmother I never had and the wisdom tree that I could always sit under to fill my cup. My heart breaks in one beat while celebrating her life in the next. To think that she lived for 96 years and I got to be a part of the last 16 brings me great joy. She called me son. Well, today your son grieves your loss and will miss our long talks, your laughter from your belly, and your very presence.”
Viola Davis, who starred alongside Cicely in “The Help,” and “How To Get Away With Murder,” said, “I’m devastated. My heart is just broken. I loved you so much!! You were everything to me! You made me feel loved and seen and valued in a world where there is still a cloak of invisibility for us dark chocolate girls. You gave me permission to dream….because it was only in my dreams that I could see the possibilities in myself. I’m not ready for you to be my angel yet.”
Other tributes that poured in, included Barack and Michelle Obama, Beyonceé, Whoppi Goldberg, Steve Harvey, Jenifer Lewis, and many others.
In her extraordinary career, Cicely Tyson was one of the rare award-winning actors whose work on the screen was surpassed only by what she was able to accomplish off of it. She had a heart unlike any other—and for 96 years, she left a mark on the world that few will ever match. pic.twitter.com/JRsL3zlKtP
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) January 29, 2021
What struck me every time I spent time with Cicely Tyson was not necessarily her star power—though that was evident enough—it was her humanity. Just by walking into a room, she had this way of elevating everyone around her. pic.twitter.com/o6VAV63wqd
— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) January 29, 2021
Rest in peace, Queen Tyson. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/xOWeo1l5lP
— Jenifer Lewis (@JeniferLewis) January 29, 2021
We continue to send our deepest condolences to the family of Cicely Tyson during this difficult time.
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TSR STAFF: Jade Ashley @Jade_Ashley94