Celebs react to Prince death

Photo: The Canadian Press

Musicians, actors and other celebrities react to the death Thursday of music great Prince via interviews, statements and social media:

"Prince, the doves really are crying now." — Oprah Winfrey.

"The news of Prince's sudden and unexpected passing is very difficult to process. He was my creative partner and friend. We shared tremendous times together during and after the making of 'Purple Rain.' I know his fans are devastated. I know his music meant so very much to so many people. He was a good man, complicated and diligent, and like men of his calibre, he always demanded from himself and others the very best." — "Purple Rain" filmmaker Albert Magnoli.

"I absolutely have no words at this moment and am in deep shock. This is a devastating loss not just for myself but for all who loved him." — singer-songwriter Judith Hill.

"Today, the world lost a creative icon. Michelle and I join millions of fans from around the world in mourning the sudden death of Prince. Few artists have influenced the sound and trajectory of popular music more distinctly, or touched quite so many people with their talent." — President Barack Obama.

"Prince's talent was limitless. He was one of the most unique and talented artists of the last 30 years." — Mick Jagger.

"Prince was peerless as a musician, performer and songwriter. He was clearly one of the all-time greats, always mesmerizing, magical and cutting edge. He was one-of-a-kind in every respect. To know Prince personally was to know someone kind and gentle, phenomenally brilliant and intellectually curious, with every bone in his body loving music. The world of music has tragically lost one of its greatest defining members." — Clive Davis, chief creative officer at Sony Music.

"He truly is a legend and a hero of mine." — Celine Dion.

"Prince is gone. Music has lost a great presence. A world less funky. I don't want to believe it. — Duran Duran singer Simon Le Bon.

"Sad to hear Prince has passed away. His iconic music, genius and talent captivated the world. Part of the soundtrack of my life." — wrestler Steve Austin.

"Rest in peace to a very beautiful soul. Prince, you were an amazing artist and human being. I wish I had the honour of meeting you." — Paris Jackson, Michael Jackson's daughter.

"We lost another one . Can't wait to hear what Prince and Bowie are working on." — singer-songwriter Gavin DeGraw.

"I'm completely shocked and devastated by the sudden loss of our brother, artist and friend, Prince. Thank you to all the fans and supporters for your endless love, and for making such big dreams come true." — Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman, former members of Prince and the Revolution.

"I will miss a good friend who was so talented. He was such a great performer / guitar player." — Ronnie Wood.

The greatest live act I ever saw. Genius, poet, sexy (expletive)." — actor Russell Crowe.

"Lots of big stars have made waves nationally and internationally, but Prince by far was the most groundbreaking more than anyone ... from his music, to his concerts — to even the way he entered a room — always surrounded with that magical air of superstardom, mystique and genius." — Tommy Mottola, former CEO and chairman of Sony Music.

"Today is the worst day ever. Prince R.I.P. I am crying!" — Boy George.

"Prince was a true gentleman, a king among men. He was as sharp and as talented as they come. I'm so glad I was lucky enough to work with him." — actress-singer Zooey Deschanel.

"Lots of guitars gently weeping today." — actor-musician Kevin Bacon.

"It was always tough to pinpoint exactly who Prince was — I think that was probably intentional — but even while we're still processing the news and remembering the enormity of his legacy, I think it's clear to remember what he was: a once-in-a-lifetime artist whose music touched all of us and will be missed dearly by everyone around the world." — Doug Herzog, president of Viacom Music and Entertainment Group.

"I miss my brother. Prince was a funny cat." — filmmaker Spike Lee.