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Luke Perry death: Jason Priestley shares moving tribute for former 90210 co-star

Perry 'was one of those truly special people who really cared', says Priestley

Clémence Michallon
New York
Thursday 07 March 2019 14:19 EST
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Luke Perry stars as Fred Andrews in Riverdale

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Jason Priestley has shared a moving tribute for his former Beverly Hills, 90210 co-star Luke Perry, remembering the late actor as “incredibly bright light that was extinguished far too soon”.

Perry died on Monday aged 52, after suffering from a serious stroke. He played Dylan McKay on 90210 while Priestley portrayed his friend Brandon Walsh.

Priestley, 49, said in an Instagram post on Thursday he needed to take some time before he was able to share a public message honouring Perry’s memory.

“It’s taken me a couple of days to figure out how to write this... My dear friend of 29 years, Luke Perry, was one of those truly special people who really cared,” Priestley wrote.

“Luke was not only a star, he was an incredibly bright light that was extinguished far too soon...and that is why I, and so many others, are in so much pain today.”

Along with his tribute, Priestley posted two photos of himself with Perry: one apparently dating back to their 90210 days, and a more recent shot.

“If you had the good fortune to know Luke, or to have ever crossed his path, I know you are sad today as well,” he added.

“The candle that burns twice as bright only burns for half as long... you burned oh, so brightly Luke... Goodnight Sweet Prince.”

Priestley is one of many celebrities who have shared tributes in the wake of Perry’s passing.

Shannen Doherty, who was also part of the 90210 cast, wrote earlier in the week: ”I’m struggling with this loss and am having a hard time with my thoughts.

“But, my heart goes out to his family and friends who were blessed by his light in their (and mine) lives.”

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The writers of Riverdale, on which Perry played Fred Andrews at the time of his death, called him a ”joyful and vibrant soul” shortly after the news broke.

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