What started out as a rumor is true: Bernie Mac has passed away from complications with a severe case of pneumonia, with his rep confirming the sad news:

“Actor/ comedian Bernie Mac passed away this morning from complications due to pneumonia in a Chicago area hospital. No other details are available at this time. We ask that his family’s privacy continues to be respected.”

In a touching tribute to the hilarious family man, actors-slash-comedians spoke out regarding Bernie’s early, untimely, and frankly pretty surprising death (considering that his rep had just told us yesterday that he was “make a full recovery.”

Tributes from Brad Pitt, George Clooney, and Chris Rock After the Jump!

From Brad Pitt: “”I lament the loss of a ferociously funny and hardcore family man. My thoughts are with [his wife] Rhonda and their family. Bernie Mac, you are already missed.”

From George Clooney: “The world just got a little less funny. He will be dearly missed.”

From Chris Rock
: “Bernie Mac was one of the best and funniest comedians to ever live but that was the second best thing he did. Bernie was one of the greatest friends a person could have. Losing him is like losing 12 people because he absolutely filled up any room he was in. I’m gonna miss the Mac Man.”

Image: WireImage

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