Hollywood Mourns Cory Monteith’s Death: Lea Michele’s Rep Releases Statement
Hollywood was understandably shocked and saddened when reports started trickling out early this morning about the sudden death of Glee star Cory Monteith.
It was reported and then later confirmed by Vancouver officials that Monteith, 31, was found dead Saturday afternoon at the Vancouver Pacific Rim Hotel, after the actor missed his check-out time.
According to reports the actor was said to be dead for several hours before he was found in his room. Authorities have confirmed that although Monteith had visitors during his stay at the hotel, there was no indication of foul play.
Following the news of Monteith’s death, the Hollywood community has gathered to pay their respects on Twitter. Since the news of his death broke, “Cory Monteith” and “#PrayForLea” have trended for several hours.
Medical examiners will conduct an autopsy on Monday to rule the cause of death. The Glee star had just completed his treatment in rehab in April for substance addiction, while girlfriend Lea Michele stood by his side. The two were pictured last month.
Lea Michele is the lead of Glee, who has been dating her co-star since November 2011, but made it official to the public in February 2012.
Following news of Monteith’s death, Lea Michele’s rep has released a statement to People magazine: “We ask that everyone kindly respect Lea’s privacy during this devastating time.”
Sources have told Hollywood Life about Lea Michele’s current state of mind following the reports of her boyfriend and co-star Cory Monteith’s death: “She is absolutely hysterical and completely inconsolable. She is devastated beyond belief.’
The rest of Hollywood has reacted to Monteith’s death in several separate tweets:
Official Glee Twitter:
We are deeply saddened by this tragic news. Cory was an exceptional talent and an even more exceptional person.
— GLEE (@GLEEonFOX) July 14, 2013
Glee Co-star Dot-Marie Jones:
I HAVE NO WORDS! MY HEART IS BROKEN CORY WAS NOT ONLY A HELL OF A FRIEND HE WAS ONE AMAZING MEN THAT I WILL HOLD CLOSE TO MY HEART FOREVER — Dot-Marie Jones (@dotmariejones) July 14, 2013
Glee co-star and friend Harry Shum Jr.:
At this time, please send nothing but love and light. This tragic news still doesn’t seem real to me. I love you Cory. — Harry Shum Jr (@iharryshum) July 14, 2013
This is such sad news about @CoryMonteith – what an absolutely tragic loss of a very talented young man. — zooey deschanel (@ZooeyDeschanel) July 14, 2013
Rumored ex-girlfriend Taylor Swift:
Speechless. And for the worst reason. — Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) July 14, 2013
Co-star Selena Gomez:
This hurts. I love you Cory. Rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. pic.twitter.com/SceFQd7gzT
— Selena Gomez (@selenagomez) July 14, 2013
Demi Lovato:
#RIPCoryMonteith… So unbelievably tragic. Please #prayforLea..
— demetria lovato (@ddlovato) July 14, 2013
Olivia Munn:
Shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Cory Monteith. All my love to his family, friends & girlfriend. #TooSoon
— oliviamunn (@oliviamunn) July 14, 2013
Kim Kardashian:
Just heard about the death of Cory Monteith. So sad. Prayers 4 his family. Praying 4 Lea too! Words cant describe what they must be feeling
— Kim Kardashian (@KimKardashian) July 14, 2013
In addition Glee’s executive producers, 20th Century Fox Television, and FOX Broadcasting Company made a joint statement on Glee’s official Facebook page:
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic news. Cory was an exceptional talent and an even more exceptional person. He was a true joy to work with and we will all miss him tremendously. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.”
Monteith was said to be happy and healthy just weeks before his death.