TV actor Alan Thicke died Tuesday, Dec. 13, at the age of 69 after reportedly having a heart attack. He was best known for his role as the dad in the 1980s sitcom Growing Pains. He also wrote some big TV theme songs such as "It Takes Diff'rent Strokes," the song for NBC's The Wizard of Odds, Celebrity Sweepstakes and many more. As a star in Growing Pains and an important figure in the entertainment industry since, many including his son Robin Thicke, John Legend, Demi Lovato, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and others, have mourned his death.
Robin Thicke spoke to the LA Times on Tuesday evening and called his father "the greatest man I have ever met." He also said that his father was "always a gentleman." Robin would confirm that his father had a heart attack playing hockey with his son Carter and one of the last things he said was to compliment Carter on a nice shot.
More celebrities and musicians paid tribute to Thicke on social media as well. Thanks 2016 for taking another legend.
Had the pleasure of meeting Alan Thicke and his amazing wife Tanya a few years back.. my thoughts and prayers are with his family. RIP
— Demi Lovato (@ddlovato) December 14, 2016
RIP Alan Thicke. I grew up watching him and got to know him through Robin. He was always so kind to me. So sad to hear about his passing. — John Legend (@johnlegend) December 14, 2016
Alan Thicke was proudly Canadian, never forgetting his roots as he soared to stardom. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) December 14, 2016
RIP to my brother Alan Thicke. The world has lost an icon. pic.twitter.com/zIK0hzjihK — Russell Simmons (@UncleRUSH) December 14, 2016
R.I.P Alan Thicke. U were way way too young. Loved watching you growing up. Rest In Peace
— OneRepublic (@OneRepublic) December 14, 2016
sad to learn of Alan Thicke's passing. he was a great friend over the years. thoughts & prayers to his family. — Ryan Seacrest (@RyanSeacrest) December 14, 2016
America loved Alan Thicke. I'm so sad he's gone. Sending so much love to his family.
— Ellen DeGeneres (@TheEllenShow) December 14, 2016
So sad is the passing of Alan Thicke. Such a good husband, father, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed. Rest in peace dear Alan. — bob saget (@bobsaget) December 14, 2016
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