QuickQuotes: Musicians, fans pay tribute to Tragically Hip frontman Gord Downie

By The Canadian Press

Gord Downie, the lead singer of the Tragically Hip whose fight with brain cancer and advocacy for Indigenous Peoples inspired a nation, died on Tuesday night. He was 53.

Seth Rogen, Tegan and Sara, and Will Arnett were among the legions of fans who paid tribute to Downie on social media as the news broke on Wednesday morning. Here are some of the reactions:

“There will never be another one like you, Gord. Rest in peace my friend.” – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

“Our hearts break on news of the passing of Wicapi Omani, ‘Walks Among the Stars,’ Gord Downie an ally and friend.” – Assembly of First Nations National Chief Perry Bellegarde

“Gord’s writing, voice, music, dancing and genuine energetic talent in service of us all will be vital forever in our national, common emotional core.” – actor Dan Aykroyd, in an emailed statement

“It was a privilege to witness Gord Downie’s creative genius, he was such a force in the Canadian music industry.” – musician Sarah McLachlan

“Thank you for the music, kindness and perseverance. What an amazing human being. Love to your family.” – musician Randy Bachman

“Husband, father, poet, activist, icon and fearless performer, Gord Downie, has passed. Thank you for inspiring so many with a life well-lived.” – Alberta band Nickelback

“You fought the good fight Gord you didn’t go gentle into that good night, your words and music will shine on – peace.” – musician Tom Cochrane

“No. No. No. No. Stars want to thank Gord and send him our hearts as he passes into another world. We loved him. There won’t be another Gord.” – Montreal band Stars

“Gord Downie. Another brilliant, wonderful soul is gone. Deepest condolences to the family. RIP Gord. Thank you for everything you gave us.” – Mike Smith, who played Bubbles on “Trailer Park Boys”

“Heartbroken today. Few Canadians touched this country like Gord Downie. Thank you for everything you gave us. My deepest condolences.” – former NHLer Doug Gilmour

“Canada and the world have lost a true icon. Rest in peace, Gord Downie. You inspired a nation.” – sprinter Donovan Bailey

“Gord Downie. You helped us see who we have been and how much better we can be. We are indebted to you forever as a nation. Rest in peace.” – Arlene Dickinson of “Dragons’ Den”

“Namaste. In gratitude and reflection, I bow my head for Gord. Deep, gracious blessings. My heartfelt condolences to the Downie family.” – musician Bif Naked

“Goodbye to Gord Downie. I wish that someday, maybe just for one day, I can be as kind as you were always, effortlessly. – actor Dave Foley

“Sad to hear of Gord Downie’s passing. But inspiring to think of how he carried himself and of all he accomplished in his final year.” – musician Ron Sexsmith

“Mourning the passing of @thehipdotcom’s Gordon Downie. He was a unique talent and will be forever missed.” – broadcaster John Roberts

“I’m truly saddened by the news of Gord Downie’s passing. Canada has lost one of its bright stars. He will be missed but not forgotten.” – musician Gordon Lightfoot

“Dear Gord Downie, thanks for everything. I’m glad you got to see how much love you generated.” – actor Sean Cullen

“Gord Downie, you are and will always be one of our greatest Canadian icons. Your musical legacy and strong advocacy will always live on.” – Heritage Minister Melanie Joly

“So very tragic. Gord Downie has died. He touched us all and left us a huge challenge in reconciliation.” – Green Party Leader Elizabeth May

“My heart is so sad today — Gord Downie, thank you for living so courageously and shedding light on glioblastoma.” – “The View” co-host Meghan McCain, daughter of U.S. Sen. John McCain, who has also been diagnosed with glioblastoma

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