John Travolta is leading the tributes to tragic actor Jeff Conaway, hailing his Grease co-star as a "wonderful" man.
Conaway died on Friday (27May11), a day after he was taken off life support. The 60 year old had been in a coma since he was hospitalised on 11 May (11), when he was found unconscious in his California home following a suspected overdose from prescription pills.
The actor, who had a history of drug abuse, had also been suffering from pneumonia and blood poisoning.
Paying tribute to his old pal, Travolta says, "(He was a) wonderful and decent man and we will miss him. My heartfelt thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this very difficult time."
Conaway's representative Phil Brock has also expressed his sorrow at the actor's passing, telling People.com, "We loved Jeff as a person. We respect him. We know his personal struggles are all over. He was a kind, gentle soul who loved to perform, from small theatre to Broadway."
Conaway had been taking the prescription pain medication since badly injuring himself following a fall at his home last year (10), when he broke his hip and arm, fractured his neck and suffered a brain haemorrhage.
His drug and alcohol troubles had been well documented over the years, including two stints on star counsellor Dr. Drew Pinksy's reality TV show, Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew.
And Pinksy has used Conaway's death as an example of the damage years of drug use can do to the body.
He tells Tmz.com, "Jeff is another pharmaceutical death from the over-utilisation of prescription drugs. Please continue to pray for friends and family. They appreciate your support."