Octavia Spencer, Gabrielle Union and 'True Blood' Co-Stars React to Nelsan Ellis' Death

Fans and celebrities alike were devastated to learn of Nelsan Ellis' untimely death. TheTrue Blood star died at the age of 39 after complications with heart failure, ET confirmed.

RELATED: 'True Blood' Star Nelsan Ellis Dies at 39

Octavia Spencer, who starred in 2011's The Help alongside Ellis, is one of many who posted her condolences to social media.

"Just got word that we lost @nelsanellisofficial," Spencer, 47, wrote on Instagram, alongside a photo of the actor and several hashtags including "#RIPNelsanEllis" and "brilliantactor." "My heart breaks for his kids and family."

"It will forever be a point of sadness for me that I never had the chance to work with Nelsan during my time on True Blood," Carolyn Hennesysaid in a statement to ET. "He was one of the finest talents I have personally seen on that or any show."

Actress Gabrielle Union shared that she was "blown away" by the tragic news.

"My God, such a beautiful soul and talented artist. Blown. Away. #RIP," Union wrote on Twitter.

Several of Ellis' True Blood co-stars also took the time to remember their friend and actor who portrayed the loveable Lafayette on the hit HBO series, including Anna Paquin, Sam Trammell, Michael McMillian, Todd Lowe, Joe Manganiello, Kristin Bauer and Lauren Bowles.

RELATED: Anna Paquin and the Cast of 'True Blood' Bid an Emotional Farewell to Their Fans

Other actors and notable fans reacted to the news with fond words and memories of the star who also starred in films and TV shows such as The Soloist, The Butler, Get On Up and Elementary.

Watch below for more from the True Blood cast.