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| Garry Marshall, pictured in 2008 Photo: Fgraffeo |
Tributes were paid last night to Pretty Woman director Garry Marshall, who has died aged 81.
Bette Midler, who starred in his female-centric tearjerker Beaches, described him on Twitter as "My wonderful, hilarious, big-hearted friend".
Bronx-born Marshall - who also created a number of iconic TV sitcoms, including Happy Days, Mork And Mindy and The Odd Couple - died from the complications of pneumonia after suffering a stroke.
His other films included Runaway Bride, Overboard and, more recently, Valentine's Day, New Year's Day and Mother's Day - which while being critically mauled made good box office.
In a statement, Richard Gere who appeared in Pretty Woman and The Runaway Bride - said: "Everyone loved Garry... he was a super fine and decent man."
"He was a mentor and a cheerleader and one of the funniest men who ever lived. He had a heart of the purest gold and a soul full of mischief."
Ashton Kutcher - who starred in Valentine's Day - also paid tribute on Twitter. He wrote: "I lost a friend & mentor. We lost a beautiful man & masterful story teller. Gary Marshall I love you. I hope I get to go where you are.
Mandy Moore, who worked with him on The Princess Diaries, also tweeted: "Garry Marshall was one of the greats. He connected us all through joy, laughter, compassion and kindness. He also gave me my very first job."
The dad of three is survived by his wife of 53 years, nurse Barbara Sue Marshall.
