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Celebrity News January 26, 2020

Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods & 50 More Celebrities React to Kobe Bryant's Death

Legendary basketball star Kobe Bryant, 41, and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna died Sunday in the fiery crash of his private helicopter in Calabasas, California.

As news spread, celebrities began to express their grief on social media, lauding Kobe for his talents, his good works, and how much they admired him personally.

Fellow basketball icon Michael Jordan said, in a statement, "I am in shock over the tragic news of Kobe's and Gianna's passing. Words can't describe the pain I'm feeling. I loved Kobe – he was like a little brother to me. We used to talk often and I will miss those conversations very much. He was a fierce competitor, one of the greats of the game and a creative force. Kobe was also an amazing dad who loved his family deeply – and took great pride in his daughter's love for the game of basketball. Yvette joins me in sending my deepest condolences to Vanessa, the Lakers organization and basketball fans around the world."

Tiger Woods, still in shock, spoke of his reaction to Kobe's death, which he heard about right after a round of golf:

In a statement to "Extra," Bill Clinton said, "Hillary and I are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and all those who died in today's helicopter crash. Kobe brought excitement and joy to basketball fans not just in Los Angeles, but all over the U.S. and around the world. He was also a leader off the court, including in his advocacy for young people, especially the vulnerable and homeless — a passion I saw firsthand when I joined him and Vanessa for the opening of a housing project they and their foundation supported. Kobe Bryant lived a very large life in a very short time. But above all, he loved his family. Our prayers are with Vanessa, Natalia, Bianka, and Capri, and all those who lost loved ones today."

Former Laker Girl Paula Abdul tweeted, "I am completely speechless and devastated at the unexpected passing of my dear friend, @kobebryant. Kobe had a big heart and an even bigger love for the community of Los Angeles. Through his foundation, he changed the lives of so many people and families with his wife, Vanessa."

Shaquille O'Neal wrote on Instagram, "There's no words to express the pain I'm going through now with this tragic and sad moment of loosing my friend, my brother, my partner in winning championships, my dude and my homie. I love you brother and you will be missed. My condolences goes out to the Bryant family and the families of the other passengers on board. IM SICK RIGHT NOW !"

Kanye West, posting a vintage shot of himself with Kobe in a recording studio, tweeted, "Kobe, We love you brother We're praying for your family and appreciate the life you've lived and all the inspiration you gave."

Luke Evans wrote on Instagram, "This is extremely painful to read about Kobe and his daughter Gianna. I met the great man once and he was the most charming dynamic person. Rest in peace! My thoughts and prayers go to all the families including Gianna's team mate and their parent and the pilot. A very sad day. Life is so very fragile and precious. 🙏🏼"

Calabasas local Melissa Etheridge tweeted, "I'm devastated. Right down the street. My heart goes out to the family and all of us. #legend #KobeBryant."

Kevin Hart wrote on Instagram, "This honestly doesn't make sense....I just saw you man. This hurts my heart. God please place your hands on his family and help guide them thru this unbearable time. We love you forever man...Legends never die!!!! #MambaMentality #RIP.... RIP to the other passengers as well as sending prayers to their families. 🙏🏾."

Lil Nas X tweeted his shock, following it up with, "rip :(" and "sending love to those grieving."

"Star Wars" actor Mark Hamill, who handed Bryant his Oscar in 2018, tweeted, "His legend will live forever. #RIPKobeByrant 💔."

Marie Osmond tweeted a selfie with Kobe, writing, "What sudden & tragic news. We just lost one of the greatest players of all time. Hold your loved ones close! Prayers for #KobeBryant's family 🙏♥️."

Kris Jenner offered on Instagram, "Devastated by the news of losing our precious Kobe Bryant. Words cannot express our sadness. All my deepest love and prayers are with Vanessa and Kobe's family at this time. 💔🙏🏼."

Kris' daughter Kylie tweeted, "at loss for words right now. praying for this beautiful family."

Danny Trejo, who appeared in the Nike spots directed by Robert Rodriguez with Bryant, tweeted, "I will always remember the kindness of the black mamba."

Several celebrities — including Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Halle Berry and Gigi Hadid — posted touching black-and-white images of the late dad and daughter along with their sentiments.

The Rock, who recently lost his dad, wrote, "Love is forever."

Halle Berry posted on Instagram the caption, "There are no real words to convey the depth of my sadness. Love and strength to Kobe's entire family and to the families of all who were lost in today's crash."

Model Gigi Hadid took to Instagram to write, "This is too much. Rest In Peace and love together, legends. Growing up a Kobe fan brought so much joy to my life, like so many, and we were all so excited to see sweet Gigi play someday. Sending strength and my deepest condolences to Vanessa, the Bryant family, and all the families affected by this tragedy."

More reactions:

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Watch "Extra's" past interviews with Kobe below.

#Instagram #KobeBryant #Obituary #Remembered #VanessaBryant

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