Gary Coleman's Wife, Celebs Respond To Coleman's Death

Todd Bridges photo INFDaily.com.

Todd Bridges, Paula Abdul and others voice their sadness.

News broke Friday afternoon East Coast time that former child actor and reality TV star Gary Coleman had passed away after suffering a brain hemorrhage. In addition to the outpouring of "RIP Gary Coleman" wishes from fans, Coleman's wife, Shannon Price, and lots of celebs have responded to Coleman's death.

Forty-two-year-old Gary Coleman had been married to Shannon Price since 2007. Price had stayed quiet about Coleman's illness late this week, only asking for prayers, but on Friday she released a statement to the media via her brother Shawn Price. Shannon Price's statement read:

"We are very grateful for all of the wonderful support everyone has extended to Gary's family. Thousands of emails have poured into the hospital. This has been so comforting to the family to know how beloved he still is."

Indeed celebrities took to Twitter and public statements to voice their sadness over the death of Gary Coleman. Coleman's Diff'rent Strokes co-star, Todd Bridges (Willis) said in a statement Friday, "It's unfortunate. It's a sad day. It's sad that I'm the last kid alive from the show."

Janet Jackson, who also starred with Coleman as a child, stated, "I'm at a loss for words upon learning of Gary Coleman's passing. I want to remember him as the fun, playful, adorable and affectionate man he was. He has left a lasting legacy. I know he is finally at peace."

Paula Abdul said, "I am so sorry to hear the sad news about Gary Coleman. My heartfelt condolences go out to his entire family."

Holly Robinson Peete said, "Rest With Angels Gary Coleman xoxo."

Vanilla Ice appeared alongside Gary Coleman periodically on The Surreal Life in 2004, and he and Coleman got into a fight (remember that?!) when Coleman refused to say, "Whatchu talkin' bout, Willis?" Vanilla Ice stated that he will attend Gary Coleman's memorial, which hasn't been set yet. He added, "I'll always remember the time he and I had. He was fun to be around for the most part. Just a good, funny guy. ... It's almost a Catch-22. He's had such a bad luck life ... I hope he's in a better place."

Go here for our Gary Coleman's life in pictures feature, then see how more celebrities responded to his death -- and well-loved Diff'rent Strokes clips -- by visiting our friends at PopEater.