CBS News/ June 4, 2012, 11:41 AM

Richard Dawson remembered by Paula Abdul, Pat Sajak and more

This June 1978 file photo shows Richard Dawson, host of "Family Feud.

/ AP

(CBS News) Hollywood is mourning longtime "Family Feud" host Richard Dawson, who died Saturday at age 79 from complications related to esophageal cancer at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles.

After news of his death spread, celebrities took to Twitter and released statements to remember the late British host/actor.

Pictures: Richard Dawson 1932-2012
Read more: "Family Feud" host Richard Dawson dies at 79

"Wheel of Fortune" host Pat Sajak said Dawson's greatest role was playing a game show host. "He was able to inject his unique brand of humor into shows like "Family Feud," Sajak said. "He could be funny and biting, mischievous and playful, but he always respected the game and treated his players with kindness."

Paula Abdul tweeted: "I'm truly saddened by the news of Richard Dawson's passing. My sincere condolences to his family & friends. Such a great loss ... I had the privilege of working w/ Richard Dawson on a movie I choreographed called 'Running Man' w/ Arnold Schwarzenegger..Richard Dawson's family, friends & loved ones are in my thoughts & prayers. This ia a truly, truly great loss."

Here are other celebrity tweets:

RIP Richard Dawson, lot more laughs in heaven now with ur presence.I am grateful for the laughs we had here.Love u
— Patty Duke (@pattyduke_id) June 3, 2012

Ah, the kissing quizzmaster of Family Feud has passed away. RIP Richard Dawson. Every "Survey Says.." was delivered with class.
— Marlee Matlin (@MarleeMatlin) June 4, 2012