Garry Marshall Dead: ‘Princess Diaries’ Stars Mourn Director After His Death

Director Garry Marshall’s death was announced Tuesday night. The 81-year-old had a long, successful career that started with TV shows like “Happy Days” and “Laverne and Shirley” and more recently included films such as “New Year’s Eve” and “Mother’s Day.” Cast members from one of his most famous films, “The Princess Diaries,” have started paying tribute to the director, who died after complications from pneumonia after suffering a stroke.

Julie Andrews, who played Queen Clarisse in the 2001 film and the 2004 sequel, expressed her grief shortly after the news was confirmed. “I am devastated to hear of Garry’s passing. He was a dear friend and colleague....generous to a fault,” she said in a statement (via Entertainment Tonight). “My heart goes out to [his wife] Barbara and the entire family. We shall miss him.”

Hector Elizondo, who portrayed Joe, also praised the Marshall, whom he’d worked with over a dozen times. “He was a kind man, an elegant man, and a loyal, loyal man,” he told E! Online. “He just elevated the atmosphere he was in. He mentored so many people. He loved seeing character in people. He used to say, ‘Everybody has talent, Hector! Everybody has talent but it’s the character that makes the difference!’”

Both actors had discussed reuniting to film “Princess Diaries 3” with Marshall and Anne Hathaway. As previously reported, Marshall wasn’t officially given the green light, but it seemed like everyone was willing to return after Hathaway gave birth this spring. It isn’t clear what will happen to the sequel now.

Several other supporting actors from the “Princess Diaries” films expressed their grief on social media.