Cicely Tyson passed away on Thursday, January 28, at the age of 96.
Her family, through her manager, Larry Thompson, announced her passing saying, “With heavy heart, the family of Miss Cicely Tyson announces her peaceful transition this afternoon. At this time, please allow the family their privacy. A formal statement and details will follow.”
Upon knowing the death of the iconic actress, Shonda Rhimes, who worked with her on How to Get Away With Murder, tweeted, “I really need this not to be true.” She also retweeted Netflix’s tribute stating, “A force in her industry who opened the door for so many to follow. There will never be another with the poise, class, and talent of Cicely Tyson. Rest in power.”
Rhimes also took to Instagram to a tribute that reads, “She was an extraordinary person. And this is an extraordinary loss. She had so much to teach. And I still have so much to learn. I am grateful for every moment. Her power and grace will be with us forever. #cicelytyson.”
She wasn’t the only one who paid tribute to the late Emmy awardee. Many actors and actresses she worked with in the industry also expressed how much Tyson has touched their lives.
Tyler Perry posted a lengthy and heartwarming tribute to the actress whom he referred to as the grandmother he never had and the wisdom tree that he could always sit under to fill his cup.
Meanwhile, Zendaya posted a black-and-white photo of the late actress with the caption, “This one hurts, today we honor and celebrate the life of one of the greatest to ever do it. Thank you Cicely Tyson. Rest in great power.”
Oprah also wrote about Tyson stating how the actress used her career to illuminate the humanity of Black people. She added that the roles she played reflected her values and that she never compromised. She concluded by writing that Tyson’s life was a testimony to greatness.
Also, Gabriel Union wrote, “We have lost a visionary, a leader, a lover, an author an icon, and one of the most talented actresses the world has ever seen. A life, a career, a fire to celebrated forevermore. #RIPCicely Tyson.
Other celebs who posted their tributes include Anne Hathaway, Robin Roberts, Rosario Dawson, Viola Davis, Willow Smith, and many more.
