Following the sad passing of Blake Edwards this morning, friends of the prolific director have issued their tributes to the man behind Pink Panther. Here are what some had to say about the beloved Edwards.
Robert Wagner, who starred in 1963′s The Pink Panther and 1983′s Curse of the Pink Panther: “He gave me some of the greatest opportunities of my career and there won’t be anybody passing by like him again. He was a genius. Personally, we were so very close friends and he was so kind to me throughout my entire life.”
Larry Hagman, who starred in 1981′s S.O.B.: “He was a great man to work with. He was easy to get along with. And he let the actors have their own input.”
Bo Derek, who starred in 1979′s 10: “We’ve lost a true genius of entertainment. It was my greatest fortune, my life-changing fortune, that he believed in me. He selected me for the role which shaped everything that ever happened to me. He was a loyal friend and I will miss him and that mischievous expression that would come over his face when he was about to come up with something hilarious.”
Dermot Mulroney, who starred in 1988′s Sunset: “It was my first year in Hollywood. I was completely unknown and Blake put me in my first real movie, Sunset, opposite huge stars Bruce Willis and James Garner. He then recommended me to Chris Cain when he was casting Young Guns, which got me that part. I don’t know where I’d be without Blake. I’ll be forever grateful to him for taking a chance on an unproven kid.”
John Larroquette, who starred in 1987′s Blind Date: “Blake had a rare talent. He could make you hold your belly laughing and then cover your face crying. We will not see his equal anytime soon.”
Amy Irving, who starred in 1984′s Micki + Maude: “Blake created so much fun on the set, it was like going to a party every day; and when the cameras rolled, it was an extension of that playfulness. Even though I’m sad, I’m smiling.”
Sela Ward, who starred in 1983′s The Man Who Loved Women: “He’ll always have a special place in my heart, he gave me my very first job in Hollywood. He was incredibly kind and gracious.”
Ted Danson, who starred in 1986′s A Fine Mess: ”I’m so pleased to have had the opportunity to work with Blake. His body of work was truly amazing. He will forever be considered one of the true captains of the industry and will be truly missed.”
Read more:
Blake Edwards, ‘Pink Panther’ director, dies
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