Famous faces from across the globe have joined sports stars in paying their respects to legendary Brazilian footballer Pele after his death on Thursday at the age of 82.
The three-time World Cup winner had been treated for colon cancer following surgery to remove a tumour late last year. Following the op, he had to have regular treatment.
He was admitted back into hospital at the end of November to re-evaluate his cancer treatment and was sadly diagnosed with a respiratory infection before subsequently being moved to palliative care when his body became unresponsive to chemotherapy.
Following his death on Thursday some of the biggest names in sport were quick to share heartfelt statements, and the world of showbiz followed suit.
Leading the Hollywood stars sharing their thoughts was actor Will Smith. The Emancipation star posted a pic of the pair to his Instagram and wrote: "The greatest to ever do it. Descanse em paz, Rei Pelé," which translates to rest in peace.
Model Naomi Campbell also penned a lengthy tribute, calling the star "a symbol for us" who "let us see dreams can become a reality".
She continued: "You were and will always be ONE OF A KIND , .. with a heart of gold 1st ever athlete as Unesco good will ambassador , a carer of the people."
She concluded by sending her deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Over on Twitter, Boy George also paid his respects by sharing a snap of the pair. Joking about how the star didn't know who he was, he wrote: "We lost another Icon today. The worlds greatest footballer Pele! When I met him he thought I was George Michael but it was ok I knew exactly who he was! R.I.P #Pele #football."
Another to take to Twitter was Russell Brand, who penned: "Pelé’s death is as impactful as the passing of The Queen but in place of the complexity of empire there is only the supreme grace of the ragamuffin who danced and blazed from poverty to unsurpassed excellence. The past fades faster with the loss of this Master. RIP Pelé."
Former US presidents also took to the platform to share their statements. Barack Obama wrote: "Pelé was one of the greatest to ever play the beautiful game. And as one of the most recognizable athletes in the world, he understood the power of sports to bring people together. Our thoughts are with his family and everyone who loved and admired him."
And Bill Clinton shared an image of the pair having a kick about alongside the words: "Pelé was not only a football legend but also a humanitarian and global icon. He used his platform to empower disenfranchised children and inspire generations around the world. We give thanks for his life and legacy."
YouTuber-turned-boxer KSI also tweeted an image of him shaking Pele’s hand, and simply said: "RIP pele."
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