Stars React to Cory Monteith's Death

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Following the shocking news Saturday night that Glee star Cory Monteith had died at the age of 31, his friends, co-stars and others in the Hollywood community, not to mention legions of fans, shared their sorrow. Below are some of their reactions.

Cory's representatives tell ET, "We are so saddened to confirm that the reports on the death of Cory Monteith are accurate. We are in shock and mourning this tragic loss."

A representative for co-star Lea Michele, who had been involved in a longterm relationship with Cory, released a statement saying, "We ask that everyone kindly respect Lea's privacy during this devastating time." Later, her reps released another statement. "Lea is deeply grateful for all the love and support she's received from family, friends, and fans. Since Cory's passing, Lea has been grieving alongside his family and making appropriate arrangements with them. They are supporting each other as they endure this profound loss together. We continue to ask the media to respect the privacy of Lea and Cory’s family."

Glee Executive Producers, 20th Century Fox Television and Fox Broadcasting Company tell ET in a statement, "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."

Dianna Agron, who played Monteith's onetime girlfriend on Glee, released the following statement to Entertainment Weekly. "I have never lost a friend. In this difficult time, I am leaning on all of the wonderful memories we shared with Cory, how many ways he was able to make us smile. Glee was a gift to all of us. It gave us a family in this industry. We really cut our teeth and grew up on this show. In playing underdogs, we learned that we had dug into the hearts of our viewers and that we could stay there. Cory is so deserving of that place in everyone's hearts. He was one of the most generous and kind people that I have ever met. He had a smart, curious mind, he was an enormous talent. He was loving to not only me, but my family. My heart goes out to his family, to Lea, to everyone that is struggling with the loss of our friend. We will miss you Cory. We will always carry a piece of you with us."

Glee guest star Gwyneth Paltrow says in a statement, "Cory was a sweet and talented man. My heart breaks for Lea and the entire Glee family."

Naya Rivera, Cory's Glee co-star, says in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, "The entire Glee family and I are deeply saddened by this tragedy. Cory was and always will be a part of my own family and a good friend. He was a special part of this world and will forever be missed. My heart goes out to Cory’s family and Lea and while we are grateful for everyone's well wishes, privacy during this time of grief is greatly appreciated."

Another Glee co-star, Mike O'Malley, gave a statement to People magazine. "Cory Monteith was a great guy; Funny, deep, thoughtful, and hardworking," O'Malley said. "In real life, he was the coolest dude, generous, and a great friend to his pals. As Finn Hudson, he did what so many actors strive to do: authentically portray human behavior in a specific, understated manner, thereby eliciting laughter and creating camaraderie with his audience."

Justin Neill, Monteith's close friend and roommate: "I am just dealing with all this still. Trying to wrap my head around it. I want to make sure people know what a great guy and a great friend he was."