RIP Robert Osborne

Robert Osborne was a film historian and host of Turner Classic Movies. His passion for preserving and sharing classic films earned him fans around the globe. He shared his knowledge of stars and directors each night on TCM. In 2015, he became the host of the Great Movie Ride at Disney's Hollywood Studios. I loved the new behind the scenes facts and history he added to the ride. Sadly, Robert Osborne passed away yesterday, at the age of 84.

Today we say good-bye to a dear member of our TCM family. Our thoughts are with all who love, as we do, Robert Osborne. #TCMRemembers pic.twitter.com/egWsPRGnJb

— TCM (@tcm) March 6, 2017

TCM has released a tribute video to Osborne as well as the following statement from general manager Jennifer Dorian:

"All of us at Turner Classic Movies are deeply saddened by the death of Robert Osborne. Robert was a beloved member of the Turner family for more than 23 years. He joined us as an expert on classic film and grew to be our cherished colleague and esteemed ambassador for TCM. Robert was embraced by devoted fans who saw him as a trusted expert and friend. His calming presence, gentlemanly style, encyclopedic knowledge of film history, fervent support for film preservation and highly personal interviewing style all combined to make him a truly world-class host. Robert’s contributions were fundamental in shaping TCM into what it is today and we owe him a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time."

May the Force Be With You, Carrie Fisher

Lucasfilm

Carrie Fisher, best known to Star Wars fans as the iconic and indomitable Princess Leia, died yesterday at the age of 60. Her dry wit and amazing air of authority made Leia an incredibly powerful role model for girls everywhere. May the Force Be With Her, Always.

RIP Prince

"Nothing compares to you..."

I was saddened to learn yesterday that Prince had died. His music has long been an important part of my life. Songs like Raspberry Beret, Little Red Corvette, and 1999 make me smile whenever I hear them. He will be missed.

RIP Alan Rickman

Well, it seems the new year is off to a sad start. Alan Rickman died yesterday at age 69. I always loved watching Rickman play the villain in films like Die Hard and Quigley Down Under, but it was the role of Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films that I liked the best. Bean said that his death was like losing Snape all over again. I think that says it all.