Very sad news today out of Hollywood:
James Horner, the Oscar-winning composer responsible for such soundtracks as those to Titanic, Braveheart and A Beautiful Mind, died on Monday after his plane crashed near Santa Barbara.
He was 61 years old.
Horner’s passing was confirmed by his assistant,Syliva Patrycja, who penned an emotional message on Facebook soon after reports went viral that a plane registered to the composer had gone down.
"We have lost an amazing person with a huge heart, and unbelievable talent," Patrycja. "He died doing what he loved.
"Thank you for all your support and love and see you down the road."
In 1997, Horner won both the Best Original Dramatic Score gong for Titanic and Best Original Song for Celine Dion’s "My Heart Will Go On," from the same film.
He also earned Academy Award nominations for his work on Aliens, Avatar, Braveheart and A Beautiful Mind.
Referencing her husband, Dion reacted to Horner’s death via statement:
"Rene and I are deeply saddened by the tragic death of James Horner. He will always remain a great composer in our hearts. James played an important part in my career. We will miss him. We offer his family and friends our deepest sympathy.”
Added Debra Messing: "We lost a MASTER today. RIP James Horner. Your music will live forever."
And Kirstie Alley: I"m so sad to hear about James Horner..He scored the first movie I did..Star Trek 2…great composer..great person…huge loss."
And Russell Crowe: "My sincere condolences to the family, loved ones and friends of James Horner."
And Seth MacFarlane: "Incredibly saddened to hear about the loss of James Horner. I grew up loving his work. He leaves behind a spectacular musical legacy."