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Jennifer Aniston pays tribute to Bill Paxton at Oscars

Photo credit: ABC
Photo credit: ABC

From Digital Spy

Jennifer Aniston paid emotional tribute to the late Aliens and Titanic star Bill Paxton at the the 89th Academy Awards.

Sunday's (February 26) ceremony took place only hours after Hollywood was rocked by the news Paxton had died at age 61 from complications from surgery.

During the traditional salute to those Hollywood legends who'd passed away during the last twelve months, Jennifer Aniston fought back tears as she singled out her friend Bill Paxton's life and legacy.

Photo credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic / Getty Images
Photo credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic / Getty Images

"As we celebrate together, we also take a moment to mourn the many legends we lost this past year," Jennifer told viewers through tears.

"Each and every one was a cherished member of our Hollywood family. As was beloved actor and friend who left us yesterday, Bill Paxton. All were loved and all will be missed."

It was Paxton's family who shared the tragic news of his death earlier on Sunday in a press statement.

"A loving husband and father, Bill began his career in Hollywood working on films in the art department and went on to have an illustrious career spanning four decades as a beloved and prolific actor and film-maker.

"Bill's passion for the arts was felt by all who knew him, and his warmth and tireless energy were undeniable. We ask to please respect the family's wish for privacy as they mourn the loss of their adored husband and father."

Paxton has turned in dozens of classic performances in Hollywood blockbusters like Terminator, Weird Science, True Lies, Twister and Edge of Tomorrow as well as critical darlings A Simple Plan, Nightcrawler and Near Dark.

Photo credit: Albert L. Ortega/Getty Images
Photo credit: Albert L. Ortega/Getty Images

His death left Hollywood bereft on Sunday, with his good friend Tom Hanks, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jamie Lee Curtis, and his Big Love co-star Aaron Paul all paying tribute on social media.

Perhaps the most powerful tribute came from Paxton's Aliens and Titanic director James Cameron, who reflected on his "friendship of laughter, adventure, love of cinema, and mutual respect" with the actor.

"The world is a lesser place for his passing, and I will profoundly miss him," James Cameron wrote.

Jimmy Kimmel hosted the 89th Academy Awards from the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on Sunday. For a full list of the night's winners, click here.


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