Brian Dennehy death: Tributes paid to ‘magnificent’ actor who starred in Tommy Boy

Actors including Mia Farrow and William Shatner have expressed their grief and admiration in the wake of the Cocoon star’s passing

Brian Dennehy died of natural causes on Wednesday at the age of 81.

The acclaimed actor enjoyed a long and decorated career in film, TV and theatre, winning a Golden Globe and two Tony Awards. The news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes and admiration online.

“Condolences to the family of Brian Dennehy. A wonderfully talented actor,” wrote William Shatner on Twitter.

Mia Farrow said: “Just devastated to learn that the magnificent Brian Dennehy has died. They is no one i enjoyed working with more. And there are few friends as valued in my life.”

Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda wrote that he “was lucky enough to see Brian Dennehy twice on stage, masterful in Love Letters, and monumentally heartbreaking in Death Of A Salesman”, describing Dennehy as ”a colossus”. “What a loss,” he continued.

Better Call Saul star Michael McKean also tweeted his condolences, saying: “RIP Brian Dennehy. Brilliant and versatile, a powerhouse actor and a very nice man as well.”

Dennehy was known to many for portraying the sheriff who pursues Sylvester Stallone’s John Rambo in the iconic 1982 action thriller First Blood, and for his turns in Gorky Park and Cocoon.

His daughter Elizabeth confirmed that the death was “not Covid-related”. Dennehy is survived by his wife and five children.