Cory Monteith’s Glee colleagues have expressed sadness and paid tributes after the young actor was found dead on Saturday in a Canada hotel. The 31-year-old’s death hasn’t been investigated fully yet, but while a cause of death is awaiting, foul play isn’t suspected, The Guardian Report.

Cory MonteithMonteith's sudden death came as a shock to everyone

Monteith's spokeswoman, Melissa Kates, said in a statement: "We are so saddened to confirm that the reports on the death of Cory Monteith are accurate." A statement from Fox, the TV network behind Glee, issued a statement calling Monteith "an exceptional talent and an even more exceptional person," adding: "He was a true joy to work with and we will all miss him tremendously."

Lea Michele – Cory’s on and off girlfriend in real life and in Glee hasn’t commented yet. Michele has not commented publicly - her PR agency asked "that everyone kindly respect Lea's privacy during this devastating time".

Many of his co-stars were quick to express their love for the late actor. "How sad to read about Cory Monteith passing away. What a shame. He was a lovely, kind, talented guy and will be missed," wrote Neil Patrick Harris, who won an Emmy for his guest role. "RIP Cory Monteith," wrote fellow guest star Kristin Chenoweth. "You will be loved. Always."

Lea Michele and Cory MonteithLea Michele dated Monteith - the paid were reported to be planning a wedding

It wasn’t just Glee stars paying their respects, though. Mia Farrow added: "Rest in peace Cory Monteith. Sad, very very sad." Singer Taylor Swift - Monteith in 2010 - wrote on Twitter: "Speechless. And for the worst reason." Rihanna tweeted: "Cory Monteith, may your spirit be at peace, and may you fly with the angels... Heartbreaking, my prayers are with all of his loved ones!"

Monteith had a well documented drug and alcohol problem, and was battling it as early as the age of 19. In 2011 he told People magazine: "I don't want kids to think it's OK to drop out of school and get high, and they'll be famous actors too. But for those people who might give up: get real about what you want and go after it."

Cory MonteithRIP Cory Monteith