The country music community is mourning following the heartbreaking news of beloved actor and comedian Leslie Jordan’s death on Monday (October 24).
Jordan died following a car crash in Hollywood on Monday morning. He was 67. He appeared to have crashed his car into a building after suffering a medical injury, law enforcement officials confirmed to TMZ. Jordan’s agent, David Shaul, confirmed in a statement to PEOPLE:
“The world is definitely a much darker place today without the love and light of Leslie Jordan. Not only was he a mega talent and joy to work with, but he provided an emotional sanctuary to the nation at one of its most difficult times. What he lacked in height he made up for in generosity and greatness as a son, brother, artist, comedian, partner and human being. Knowing that he has left the world at the height of both his professional and personal life is the only solace one can have today.”
“The love and light that Leslie shared will never go out and we invite you to share your memories and comfort each other during this time,” a statement on Jordan’s Instagram read on Monday afternoon. “In the coming days we will be giving a glimpse of a project Leslie was really proud of and was looking forward to sharing with the world.”
The country music community took part in an outpouring of tributes in Jordan’s memory, including several on their Instagram stories and in posts on social media. Lady A’s Hillary Scott remembered, in part: “We had lunch after we chatted over FaceTime and it was a JOY to spend those few hours with him. If you followed Leslie on Instagram over the pandemic you know that there is arguably no one who was a brighter more comedic light in such an unsteady and scary time. Not to mention his incredible talent that he lended to film and tv for so many years. Goodness gracious I’m sad. Lord be near his family and friends and give them comfort.”
“I’ve honestly never known such love and kindness,” Cassadee Pope wrote. “I’ll miss this fella and his stories more than words can express. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones. Rest easy, Leslie 💔”
Lauren Alaina wrote in a heartfelt note on her Instagram story: “I feel honored to have known you. You are such a light the world could never put out. You may be on the other side, but your wit and love will live on here forever. Rest easy, sweet friend.”
The Grand Ole Opry shared throwback photos from Jordan’s Opry debut last year. “Every time Leslie stepped on our stage, he brought joy with him,” reads a tribute on the Opry’s Instagram. “We will miss our friend Leslie ❤️”
Dolly Parton shared a heartbreaking statement: “Well I am as Hurd and shocked as if I have lost a family member. Leslie and I had a special bond, I think the world felt they had a special bond with him. I know people always say ‘Oh, they will be missed’ but in this case that could not be more true. He will be missed by everyone who knew him personally and by everyone who was entertained by him. Rest in peace lil’ brother.”
Jimmie Allen, Chapel Hart and others shared heartfelt tributes to Jordan on Monday. See some of them here: