New details have come to light about the death of actor Russell Crowe’s father overnight, with 7News reporting that John Alexander Crowe was on a Qantaslink flight from Sydney to Coffs Harbour on Tuesday when he died.

7News also revealed that a doctor and several crew members attempted to resuscitate him, however he couldn’t be saved. It’s not clear what caused the mid-air emergency.

“They basically gave him CPR for who knows how long … probably 18 to 20 minutes,” fellow passenger Andrew Fraser told 7News. “They worked tirelessly and continued after the flight had landed.”

Russell took to Twitter on Tuesday afternoon to share the heartbreaking news with fans and loved ones, revealing his “dear old man” had passed away. His death comes only weeks after he celebrated his 85th birthday.

“I arrived back in the bush last night,” Russell wrote. “Today, although the sun is shining and the torrential rain has abated, this date will forever be tinged with sadness. My dear old man, my beautiful dad, the most gentle of men, has passed away.

“I’m posting this because I know there are people all over the world whose heart he touched and whose ribs he tickled with his sparkly eyes and his cheeky attitude to everyone and everything, and this is probably as efficient a method as any to pass on the news.”

At the time, fans were quick to share their condolences, with Twitter user @Jacquel31802344 writing, “I have just woken to read this very sad news, Russell. My heart goes out to you, your Mum and the others in your family. I know it will be a loss that runs really deep. Fathers and sons have a special bond. I know you will grieve, but hold his memory close in your heart.”

Another fan, @fractaldcm, added, “Please know that your father and whole family are in my prayers at this very distressing time and please accept our sincerest condolences.”