The horror movie icon passed away on Sunday (07Jun15) following three weeks of treatment for heart failure and respiratory problems, but his loss was only made public on Thursday.

His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the likes of his old pal Sir Roger Moore, co-stars Elijah Wood and Chloe Grace Moretz, and British Prime Minister David Cameron, and now PETA President Ingrid Newkirk has issued a statement in memory of the longtime animal rights activist.

Newkirk writes, "PETA joins in mourning the passing of screen legend Christopher Lee. There was a kind heart behind the on-screen villain, and it was a privilege to work with him on our campaign to end cruel heart-disease experiments on animals and encourage everyone to support charities that don't hurt and kill animals. He will be missed by all of us."

Meanwhile, Zoe Saldana, James Franco, Michael MCKean, Patty Duke and rocker Tom Morello are among the other celebrities who have also commented on Lee's passing on social media.