Bill Paxton Passes Away; Acclaimed Actor Was 61

Hollywood mourns the death of Bill Paxton as the movie industry loses another star. Paxton is known for his movies like "Titanic", "Twister", "Apollo 13" and "Aliens" among others. The actor was 61 and is survived by his wife and two children.

The family issued a statement saying that Bill Paxton passed away because of complications from surgery. The statement says that "it is with heavy hearts we share the news that Bill Paxton has passed away due to complications from surgery." The multi-awarded actor has earned three Best Actor nominations in the Golden Globe for his role in "Big Love." The HBO drama is about a life of a polygamist as he maintains three families at the same time.

Paxton was also part of the cast of "The Terminator" in 1984 and "True Lies" in 1994. His friend, Producer Jerry Bruckheimer has issued a statement saying that he is devastated by the passing of his friend Bill. Bruckheimer says that Bill was a "tremendously talented actor and a wonderful man."

Hollywood stars have expressed their condolences to the family and paid their tribute to Paxton as well. Rob Lowe has shared on this Twitter account how he feels. "Devastated by the sudden loss of my close friend and one of the finest actors in the business, Bill Paxton. Renaissance man, raconteur and uniquely American national treasure. His filmography speaks for itself. His friendship was a blessing. My love to Bunny, James and Lydia."

Paxton was not only an actor but tried his hand in directing as well. He directed films like "Frailty" and "The Greatest Game Ever Played." Screenwriter Brian Lynch has said that "Paxton was great in everything." Lynch further says that Paxton deserved more acclaim as he was "underrated" as a director.

Paxton has just finished the first season of "Training Day" as Detective Frank Rourke. It is not yet sure what will happen to the series now that Paxton is gone.