Hollywood and a sea of adoring fans were left in a state of mourning after the beloved actor and comedian Leslie Jordan, who was well known for his scene-stealing appearances in Will and Grace and Hearts Afire, died at the age of 67 on Monday, October 24.
Jordan was reportedly involved in a fatal car accident after suffering from a medical emergency, according to TMZ. A representative for Jordan confirmed his passing in a statement, stating that “the world is definitely a much darker place today without the love and light of Leslie Jordan.”
“Not only was he a mega talent and joy to work with, but he provided an emotional sanctuary to the nation at one of it’s most difficult times,” the statement read.
“What he lacked in height he made up for in generosity and greatness as a son, brother, artist, comedian, partner and human being.
“Knowing that he has left the world at the height of both his professional and personal life is the only solace one can have today.”
Jordan was born on April 29, 1955 and secured his first acting role in 1986 as Malone in The Fall Guy. He quickly found success in the entertainment industry, securing roles in television series such as Murphy Brown, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Star Trek: Voyager, Reba, Boston Public, Boston Legal, Nash Bridges, American Horror Story, and Hearts Afire.
His most iconic role, however, came as Beverly Leslie on the hit sitcom Will and Grace which not only made Jordan a fan favourite of the show’s large fanbase but also secured the actor an Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series at the 58th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards in 2006.
Given that Jordan’s role in Will and Grace brought him considerable fame it seemed only fitting that the stars of the hit series were among the first to deliver their heartfelt tributes to the late entertainer.
Debra Messing, who played Grace in the series, claimed that the “whole world has dimmed” in a tribute to Instagram.
“The joy & delight you have brought into my life has been a beautiful gift,” she wrote.
“I wish I had the words.
“Fly with the angels, friend. And sing, sing, sing.”
Eric McCormack, who portrayed Will in the series, was “crushed to lead about the loss of” Jordan who he called the “flirtiest southern gent” he had ever met.
Fellow Will and Grace star Sean Hayes said his “heart is broken” following Jordan’s sudden passing.
Megan Mullally, who shared many scenes with Jordan in the series, said she was left in a state of disbelief after learning of Jordan’s passing.
“My heart is breaking,” she said.
“I really can’t believe it.
“Leslie Jordan was, hands down, one of the greats. People use that expression a lot, and I’m not sure it’s always applicable. There aren’t that many people who are truly great at anything. but Leslie was flawlessly funny, a virtuoso of comedy. His timing, his delivery, all apparently effortless. You can’t get any better than that.
“And what a friendly, fun-loving, dear person.”
The heartfelt tributes were not only relegated to the stars of Will and Grace, as entertainment heavyweights far and wide honoured the late Jordan while sharing treasured memories of the performer.
Queen of Country, Dolly Parton, collaborated with Jordan on a gospel album in 2021 and said she was left “hurt and shocked” by his death.
Star Trek star, George Takei, was left “stunned” by the death of Jordan, telling his followers the late actor will be missed for his “mirth” and “inimitable spirit”.
Wonder Woman star, Lynda Carter, said it “feels so cruel that this could happen to such a beautiful soul” after hearing of Jordan’s death.
Mayim Bialik, star of The Big Bang Theory, bid farewell to her “dear mentor” and “beloved friend”.
Hollywood heavyweight, Reece Witherspoon, claimed Jordan’s “beautiful energy lit up every room”.
Talk show host, Ellen DeGeneres, took to social media to send “love to his family and friends”.
Star Wars icon, Mark Hammill, expressed his gratitude for the “years of laughter” Jordan provided.
US actress Marlee Matlin said Jordan “was such a pleasure to work with” when they featured together on Reasonable Doubts.
Star of The West Wing, Allison Janney, thanked Jordan for his “humour” and “kindness”.
Jordan is survived by his younger twin sisters, Jana and Janet.