Helen Mirren and her husband Taylor Hackford have released a statement about their heartbreak at the loss of Rio Hackford.
The actor was revealed to have died last week at the age of 51, and the couple have confirmed he had been battling uveal cancer.
They said in a joint statement to People that they ‘are both inspired by the life of our son and stepson, Rio Hackford, and heartbroken by his loss.
‘His life showed us how to live in generosity and community. He shared his life’s journey with so many who now mourn him, and at the same time, celebrate their fortune in knowing him.’
Mirren, 76, and Hackford, 77, have been married since 1997 and the actress shared a close relationship with her stepson.
The couple urged others to get their eyes checked in order to catch similar cancers early, explaining: ‘Rio died of uveal melanoma, a very aggressive and rare form of cancer.
‘We would beg everyone reading this to get their eyes tested at least once a year, which might save their loved ones from this cancer.’
News of Hackford’s death was shared by his brother Alex, who revealed to Variety that The Mandalorian and Pam & Tommy actor had died in Huntington Beach, California, on Thursday.
Hackford was mourned by friends and fans, including Queens of the Stone Age’s Josh Homme, who had ‘Rio’ tattooed on himself in his honour.
Homme said: ‘Rio just knew things. Esoteric things. Off-the-map things. Secret things. Wonderful things.
‘He knew these things because of his charm, wit, honesty, character and tough personality. He was a real man in a sea of poseurs.’
Renee Zellweger added: ‘Rio … a titan of kindness, love, class, courage. And cool. A legend.’
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