Cicely Tyson’s career was an inspiration on and off the screen, so after the 96-year-old Hollywood icon died on Thursday, tributes to her began to show.
“I really need it not to be true,” wrote Shonda Rhimes, a prolific producer and screenwriter, on Twitter. Tyson had a memorable recurring role on the Rhimes show How to get away with Murder.
Rhimes then paid tribute to Tyson, the legendary actor who paved the way for black women in the industry with nuanced characters over a 70-year career that earned him Emmy and Tony awards.
“She was an extraordinary person,” wrote Rhimes. “She had a lot to teach. And I still have a lot to learn.”
Actor Zendaya also lamented the loss of the acting icon.
“This hurts,” wrote Zendya.
“You paved the way,” noted actress Tracie Thoms.
“You made me feel loved, seen and valued in a world where there is still a cloak of invisibility for us, dark chocolate girls,” wrote Viola Davis. “You are allowed me to dream.”
Others who also had a chance to work with Tyson remember her as tireless over a 70-year career.
In a series of photos, the rapper and actor Common noted Tyson’s influence throughout his career, not only on screen, but in fashion and culture.
Just two days before his death, Tyson’s memories Just as I am was published. In an interview with CBS This MorningGayle King of Tyson, discussed his life and legacy while promoting the book.
On Thursday, King posted a portion of the interview and thanked the pioneer actor.
Others noted the barriers that were broken by Tyson’s work, especially for black women. His portraits of nuanced characters and elegant presence on the screen were an inspiration and a force for change.
Bernice King, the youngest of Martin Luther King Jr.’s children, also paid tribute to the actor.
“What a vase,” she wrote.