‘One of the greats’: Fans and celebrities unite to honour the late Alan Arkin

In the wake of actor Alan Arkin’s passing, devoted fans and celebrities alike have come together to pay tribute to the legendary talent who left an immeasurable mark on the world of entertainment.

Arkin reportedly passed away at the age of 89 in his California home on Thursday, June 29, his sons issued a statement confirming his death 

“Our father was a uniquely talented force of nature, both as an artist and a man. A loving husband, father, grand and great grandfather, he was adored and will be deeply missed,” the statement read.

Born March 26, 1934, in Brooklyn, New York, Arkin’s journey in the performing arts began in the theatre. He honed his craft in various stage productions, showcasing his exceptional acting abilities and captivating audiences with his performances. His breakthrough came in 1963 when he won a Tony Award for his role in the Broadway play Enter Laughing.

One of his most iconic roles came in 1966 when he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his portrayal of Lt. Rozanov in The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming.

Arkin’s career continued to flourish with notable performances in films such as Wait Until Dark, The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter, and Catch-22.

In 2006, Arkin delivered a standout performance in the critically acclaimed film Little Miss Sunshine. His portrayal of Edwin Hoover, a foul-mouthed and lovable grandfather, earned him widespread acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. This role solidified his status as a seasoned actor capable of delivering both comedic and poignant performances.

Arkin’s talent extended beyond acting. He also explored directing with films such as Fire Sale, Little Murders, and The Four Seasons. In addition, Arkin authored several books, including the memoir An Improvised Life, where he shared insights into his personal and professional life.

Throughout his career, Arkin garnered immense respect and admiration from his peers. He was well known for his professionalism, humility, and dedication to his craft, inspiring countless actors with his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters.

As news broke of Arkin’s passing, fans and celebrities alike united to deliver heartfelt tributes to the late star, honouring his extraordinary talent and the profound impact he made on the world of entertainment

Alan Arkin was one of our greatest actors. Hilarious, heartbreaking, and the ability to be terrifying, his range was amazing. I cherish the chance I had to act with him in #America’s Sweethearts. https://t.co/s7qyVpNjGe

— Billy Crystal (@BillyCrystal) June 30, 2023

Alan Arkin was one of the most diverse actors in the business.
My condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed.

— Trish Lane ???? (@iTrishLane) June 30, 2023

Thank you Alan Arkin for so many unforgettable, brilliant performances! For me, you will always be ‘Schmendrick’- the most invaluable magician and companion any unicorn could hope for. It was a privilege to journey with you . Love and respect always pic.twitter.com/LL0BvIcFNR

— Mia Farrow???????????? ????️‍???? (@MiaFarrow) June 30, 2023

Another great actor will sadly be missed

— Khalid Henry (@KhalidHenry6) June 30, 2023

I revered #AlanArkin so much I even shaved my head to look more like him. 🙂 pic.twitter.com/kW4aAhGaX7

— Paul Reiser (@PaulReiser) June 30, 2023

The legendary Alan Arkin was an unforgettable friend to us. Whether he was performing on The Muppet Show or giving tours of our studio in our movie The Muppets, he was always making us laugh. Thanks for the memories, Alan! pic.twitter.com/DF6a6RPm2w

— The Muppets (@TheMuppets) June 30, 2023

Brilliant actor. And an awesome grandpa in Little Miss Sunshine

— Michael (@BlueMerleBill) June 30, 2023

Alan Arkin was so talented with astounding range. He could do it all and he did. And brilliantly. Watching him over the years taught me so much about acting. Talent like this is rare indeed.
Rest in Peace Alan Arkin.

— Ellen Barkin (@EllenBarkin) June 30, 2023

One of the greats

— todd nicolich (@toddnicolich) June 30, 2023

“ At one point, Alan Arkin requested to do a last-minute rewrite of a scene, which made a handful of studio execs mighty uncomfortable. According to Cusack, he assured them, saying “Don’t worry. That’s Alan Arkin. Anything he’s gonna do is gonna make this thing even better “… pic.twitter.com/kad9gNz24R

— John Cusack (@johncusack) June 30, 2023

So great in everything I saw him in. Rest easy sir. Condolences to the family.

— Ernie D. (@Ernie18D) June 30, 2023

So sad to hear about Alan Arkin. A brilliant actor who was a thrill to work with and a thrill to watch work.

— Rob Reiner (@robreiner) June 30, 2023

rip alan arkin! this scene in mike nichols’ adaptation of catch 22 (1970) is still the hardest I’ve ever laughed at a movie pic.twitter.com/9IFe86rSZK

— mike leigh made it (@cowboy_ersatz) June 30, 2023

Still processing the loss of Alan Arkin, one of the most gifted & versatile actors of all time. He was also a great director which I learned while appearing alongside his wife Barbara Dana & son Anthony in ROOM SERVICE off-B’way. He is simply irreplaceable. #ripAlanArkin pic.twitter.com/0lgwFOgaOa

— Mark Hamill (@MarkHamill) July 1, 2023

Arkin is survived by his wife Suzanne, his three sons, four grandchildren, and a great-grandson.