TORONTO — The death of Canadian-born acting legend Christopher Plummer has sparked a flood of tributes from around the world. Here’s some of the reaction from stars and arts organizations on Twitter:
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Prime Minister Justin Trudeau:
“Today, Canada and indeed the world lost one of our most iconic and beloved actors – Christopher Plummer… Mr. Plummer was a timeless actor who entertained millions around the world and inspired many to pursue the arts. A true gentleman and a consummate professional, his presence both on and off the stage will be thoroughly missed. On behalf of all Canadians, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, his friends, and his many fans.”
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Actor Kris Holden-Ried, who starred alongside Plummer in the TV series “Departure”:
“It was one of the great pleasures of my career to work with Chris, or as we called him Mr. Plummer, even though he would insist on us calling him Chris. He was a man of unparalleled wit, charm and class. And to me personally, such an inspiration when he turned 89 while we were filming. I quickly realized that I had a new role model. And he will continue to be.”
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Actor Peter DaCunha, who appeared with Plummer in the 2015 Atom Egoyan film “Remember”
“Christopher Plummer was one of the most talented people in this industry and I learned so much while working with him. One of my favourite memories with him was when we were on set and he had a tray of chocolate bars brought out to him in between our takes. I was amazed when he would only grab one square at a time, I looked up to him and thought he was so cool. Just being in his presence taught me so much, and the advice he gave me will stay with me forever.”
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Antoni Cimolino, artistic director of the Stratford Festival in southwestern Ontario:
“Christopher Plummer was our North Star. His talent, wit and verve set the highest standards for performance, especially that of Shakespeare. One of the Stratford Festival’s most dynamic alumni, he graced our stages in roles as diverse as King Lear, Cyrano and Barrymore. His work on screen and stage across the globe made us so proud of him. His support for Stratford was unparalleled as he returned time and again to fondly rejoin his company of players. We shall not look upon his like again.”
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Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television:
“We are devastated to hear that screen legend, Christopher Plummer, has passed. He was an extraordinary Canadian talent who captivated us with his humour, charm, & undeniable talent. Our deepest condolences go out to his loved ones at this time.”
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Actor Chris Evans, Plummer’s co-star in “Knives Out”:
“This is truly heartbreaking. What an unbelievable loss. Few careers have such longevity and impact. One of my favorite memories from ‘Knives Out’ was playing piano together in the Thrombey house between set ups. He was a lovely man and a legendary talent.”
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Cameron Bailey, co-head and artistic director of the Toronto International Film Festival:
“RIP to this magnificent gentleman, adorable for his lifelong grudge against what he called “The Sound of Mucus.” But Plummer brought glory back to his Toronto hometown, including that time he came to premiere “Beginners,” the film that won him an Oscar.”
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Canadian actor and filmmaker Jay Baruchel:
“An absolute icon and master craftsman whom few will ever match. His utterly bulletproof work looms high over a century of English language drama. He was also a Montreal legend who has been a source of inspiration and a hero for me for pretty much my whole life.”
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Pixar Animation Studios:
“Pixar remembers Christopher Plummer, who as Charles Muntz in “Up,” taught us that ‘adventure is out there.’ Rest in peace, good friend.”
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Canadian “Schitt’s Creek” co-creator and star Daniel Levy:
“What a legend. What a loss. Thank you, Mr. Plummer.”
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 5, 2021.
The Canadian Press