Though he made some missteps, Finn Hudson, Cory Monteith’s character on “Glee,” functioned as the heart of the show, routinely encouraging and inspiring characters with his lovably dorky persona. His character’s growth–both as a person and as a musician–functioned as the illustration of the series’ own growth, as well as that of its characters and viewers.
In real life, Monteith touched many, cultivating a positive reputation with his peers and millions of fans over the course of a career that ended far too early on Saturday, July 13. Monteith, who had recently finished a stint in rehab and seemed to be in a good place as “Glee” geared for production on its fifth season, was found dead in a Vancouver hotel room Saturday afternoon. He was 31.
Word broke shortly after midnight, shocking the millions who found something–be it joy, inspiration or just likability–in the centerpiece of FOX’s influential series.
An outpouring of support spread throughout social media, with a combination of diehard fans, casual observers and big-time celebrities sharing their condolences for those most affected by Monteith’s unfortunate passing.
Mark Salling, who played Finn’s best friend Puck on “Glee,” initially–and heartbreakingly–Tweeted “No,” before ultimately deleting the note.
Other celebrity comments, including those from “Glee” guest stars Iqbal Theba, Dot-Marie Jones and Damian McGinty, follow:
Speechless. And for the worst reason.
— Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) July 14, 2013
RIP cory ! Didn't know him personally! Met him on a couple of occasions! Super nice guy! Thoughts and prayers with his family and friends! X
— Niall Horan (@NiallOfficial) July 14, 2013
What I will remember about Cory Monteith is that he was talented, funny and absolutely kindhearted. We lost a gentleman. RIP
— Cheyenne Jackson (@cheyennejackson) July 14, 2013
Goodbye my amazing and beautiful friend. The lights in my world just grew dimmer. The world just lost one of our best. I love u so much…
— Adam Shankman (@adammshankman) July 14, 2013
So sad to lose a dear friend & talented man… @CoryMonteith you'll always be remembered.
— Katie Cassidy (@MzKatieCassidy) July 14, 2013
I can't fully process this news. Tragic, tragic loss of a young, promising, talented man. Cory Monteith, rest in peace
— Kat Dennings (@OfficialKat) July 14, 2013
I'm gutted. Shocked and saddened to hear the news, my heart goes out to Cory's family and friends. Lets respect their space as they grieve.
— Nina Dobrev (@ninadobrev) July 14, 2013
RIP Cory Montieth… Such a nice guy, very down to earth. Incredibly sad…. #TooYoungToDie
— Mario Lopez (@MarioLopezExtra) July 14, 2013
I AM BLESSED TO HAVE WORKED WITH HIM AND LOVE HIM SO MUCH! MY HEART IS WITH HID FAMILY AND OUR WHOLE GLEE FAMILY! I LOVE YOU ALL!
— Dot-Marie Jones (@dotmariejones) July 14, 2013
God I am so incredibly saddened by the death of Cory Monteith, completely shocked. My prayers goes out to all those who loved him.
— Teresa Palmer (@tez_palmer) July 14, 2013
OMG!! My Cory…
— iqbal theba (@iqbaltheba) July 14, 2013
This is such sad news about @CoryMonteith – what an absolutely tragic loss of a very talented young man.
— zooey deschanel (@ZooeyDeschanel) July 14, 2013
The guy I shot my first acting scene with. The nicest guy I've met. Can't believe it.
— Damian Mc Ginty (@damianmcginty) July 14, 2013
