HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — Celebrity tributes have been pouring in on Twitter following the death of beloved actor Leslie Nielsen.
"Surely you can't be serious," an airline passenger tells Nielsen in the 1980 classic Airplane!, in which he starred as an incompetent doctor on an ill-fated flight.
"I am serious," Nielsen replies. "And don't call me Shirley."
Several stars referred to the line as they paid their respects on Twitter, including comedian and actor Russell Brand.
"RIP. Leslie Nielsen. Shirley, he will be missed," said Brand.
"Shirley, this breaks my heart," added singer Josh Groban.
Also paying tribute was Ryan Seacrest, who wrote: "Sad to hear about Leslie Nielsen passing. To this day Airplane is still one of my favorite comedies ever."
Others who expressed their sorrow included comedian Kevin Pollak, who simply said, "LOVED him."
More stars tributes were:
• "So sad to hear about Leslie Neilson passing. Prayers to his loved ones." - Brooke Burke
• "A lovely man and acquaintance passed away today - Leslie Nielsen. What a lovely, funny, talented man. He will be missed. RIP." - Marlee Matlin
• "RIP Leslie Nielson, one of my all time favorite comedians." - Slash
Nielsen died Sunday at age 84 due to complications from pneumonia.
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