Luke Perry has died at 52 following a “massive” stroke.
The actor was rushed to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Burbank, Calif. on Wednesday morning after suffering a stroke at his home. On Thursday, a rep for the actor confirmed he was in hospital for observation, denying reports Perry was placed in a medically induced coma.
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A rep for Perry confirmed the actor’s passing to ET Canada on Monday: “Actor Luke Perry, 52, passed away today after suffering a massive stroke. He was surrounded by his children Jack and Sophie, fiancée Wendy Madison Bauer, ex-wife Minnie Sharp, mother Ann Bennett, stepfather Steve Bennett, brother Tom Perry, sister Amy Coder, and other close family and friends. The family appreciates the outpouring of support and prayers that have been extended to Luke from around the world, and respectfully request privacy in this time of great mourning. No further details will be released at this time.”
Perry rose to fame as Dylan McKay on “Beverly Hills, 90210” and most recently appeared as Archie’s dad, Fred Andrews, on “Riverdale”.
With over 90 acting credits to his name, Perry also appeared in “Buffy The Vampire Slayer”, “Oz”, “Windfall” and “Jeremiah” among many others. Perry recently wrapped filming on a role in Quentin Tarantino’s upcoming drama “Once Upon A Time In Hollywood”. Lili Reinhart, who plays Betty on “Riverdale”, tweeted that she was “finding it hard to grasp” adding, “I just can’t believe it.”
His co-star Leonardo DiCaprio tweeted his condolences.
Production on “Riverdale” has shut down for the day. The series’ executive producers released a statement to ET Canada:
“We are deeply saddened to learn today about the passing of Luke Perry. A beloved member of the ‘Riverdale’, Warner Bros. and CW family, Luke was everything you would hope he would be: an incredibly caring, consummate professional with a giant heart, and a true friend to all. 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.”
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Fans, co-stars and friends of the actor paid tribute to Perry online following news of his death.
His “90210” co-star and SAG-AFTRA President, Gabrielle Carteris:
“I am absolutely heartbroken. Luke was a tremendous force in the lives of so many. He was a very sensitive soul who was kind, generous and he fought for the underdog. He was a strong voice and an advocate who will be so missed by all who knew him. He has left his mark – never to be forgotten. My heart goes out to his family, friends and fans around the globe.”
Perry’s former agent, Chris Nassif, during “Beverly Hills, 90210” issued a statement. “Luke will be missed, a friend gone way too soon. It seems like yesterday that I was Luke’s agent negotiating his role on ‘Beverly Hills, 90210’. I would like to express my condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
Shannon Doherty who starred in “Beverly Hills, 90210” told People, “I am in shock. Heartbroken. Devastated by the loss of my friend. I have so many memories with Luke that make me smile and that are forever imprinted on my heart and mind.”
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