Yesterday, we learned some truly shocking news.
Nelsan Ellis had passed away. He was only 39 years old.
As his manager explained in a statement, "Nelsan has passed away after complications with heart failure. He was a great talent, and his words and presence will be forever missed."
Nelsan is perhaps best known for his role as Lafayette on the HBO series True Blood, but he also had roles in movies like The Help and The Butler.
And, judging by statements that have been flooding in yesterday and today, he was also known among his peers for being a truly amazing person.
Check out some of the tributes from Hollywood for Nelsan below …
1. Anna Paquin
“It was an utter privilege to work with the phenomenally talented and deeply kind soul .@OfficialNelsan I’m devastated by his untimely death.”
2. Stephen Moyer
“Nelsan Ellis was truly remarkable. A brilliant, charismatic, intelligent, soulful, wonderful dude. this is just completely tragic.”
3. Joe Manganiello
“Crushed today by the loss of my friend and castmate Nelsan Ellis. He was a wonderful person, a pioneer, and a one of a kind artist. Watching him work was like watching someone channel a spirit. It was mesmerizing. RIP.”
4. Jessica Chastain
“This is so sad. Sweet Nelsan. We didnt even scratch the surface of seeing what this artist was capable of. My love to the family of this spectacular man. #NelsanEllis.”
5. Sam Trammell
“I don’t know if I’ve ever seen the level of humility and kindness that came with the Magnificent Talent that Nelsan Ellis had. Miss u friend.”
6. Jesse Williams
“The few times I got to sit w/ Nelsan Ellis, he was incredibly sincere, thoughtful and generous. His tremendous talent spoke for itself. #RIP”