Swayze Praised by Celebs, Friends and Fans

(CBS/ AP)  Celebrities and fans inspired by Patrick Swayze's struggle with pancreatic cancer are expressing their condolences upon his death.

Swayze, known for such hit films as "Dirty Dancing" and "Ghost" succumbed to his illness yesterday in Los Angeles at the age of 57.

"Patrick was a rare and beautiful combination of raw masculinity and amazing grace, gorgeous and strong, he was a real cowboy with a tender heart," Jennifer Grey, Swayze's co-star in "Dirty Dancing," told "Entertainment Tonight."

"Patrick lived a thousand life times in one life," actor Rob Lowe said of Swayze.

C. Thomas Howell, who co-starred with Swayze in "The Outsiders," "Grandview U.S.A." and "Red Dawn" says he's always had a special place in his heart for Patrick. Howell says "it was our passion for horses that forged a friendship between us that I treasure to this day."

Read the full obituary for Patrick Swayze

Others used Twitter to express their sadness.

Demi Moore, who played Swayze's fiancee in "Ghost," writes: "Patrick you are loved by so many and your light will forever shine in all of our lives."

"It solidified him as a star," Bradley Jacobs of US Weekly magazine said of Swayze's role in "Ghost." Jacobs told CBS' "The Early Show" Tuesday that Swayze was not initially considered for a part in the film, but was so moved by the script that he auditioned six times until he received the starring role.

Larry King wrote of the late actor: "Patrick Swayze was a wonderful actor & a terrific guy. He put his heart in everything. He was an extraordinary fighter in his battle w Cancer." King adds that he'll do a tribute to Swayze on his CNN program tonight.

Swayze was married since 1975 to Lisa Niemi, a fellow dancer who took lessons with Swayze's mother, a choreographer; they met when he was 19 and she was 15.

Photo Essay: Patrick Swayze, 1952-2009

[ajc1952]

What a great loss. Even though I didn't know Patrick personally, I also feel a sadness and loss for his passing. He was a good man through and through. The world will miss you Patrick. My condolences to his family and friends!

[momofdaisy]

Rest in Peace. Sincere condolences to his wife, Lisa and his family. No one will love him or miss him like you do.

[candy-apple13]

"Next of Kin" with Liam Neeson. One of my favorites!

[ed_c_in_ok]

Patrick was a Man's Man and a positive role model. Life rushes by so quickly. Too many are being taken too soon.

Yet another example of how private sector healthcare has missed the mark. When the focus is allowed to remain on the bottom line rather than in search of a resolve, such a system's priorities must be examined and redirected.
Because of President Kennedy's commitment in 1961, the government successfully placed a man on the moon within 10 years. That was 40 years ago. Yet we still have not found the cure for so many diseases like this.

It's time Barack Obama makes a commitment to America that through his Healthcare program, we will find an affordable cure for cancer within the next ten years. This kind of senseless neglect must end now.

Peace be with you Patrick.


He seemed to always have a reasonbly healthy ego and never became too full of himself as many of the beautiful people do, if they reach extreme celebrity status.

[GetAGrip007]

"it's great you to take the love with you"... 'Ghost'
May you rest in sweet sweet peace Patrick.

[pickaguitar1]

I wouldn't leave him alone with my kids but he was a good actor in a few movies

[GetAGrip007]

what the he11 are you talking about?

[erasmus111]

by pickaguitar1 September 15, 2009 2:08 PM EDT
I wouldn't leave him alone with my kids but he was a good actor in a few movies


I think you should have stuck with your "RIP". : )

[ampsanne]

Patrick, I wish we could have seen you in more movies. You were a number one star and to me stood above the rest. May you rest in peace and know the world is in mourning over your death.

[momofthreebo]

We lost a great man. You will be missed. My thoughts & prayers are with your family.

[ferriskitty]

I would also like to extend my deepest sympathies to Lisa and the rest of Patrick's family at this difficult time. I have danced since I was two years old and Patrick has always been an idol. I was teaching tap when I learned of this great loss and it just broke my heart. The dance/ art world has suffered greatly this year, but none that will soon be forgotten. Patrick said it best in Dirty Dancing. "I've had the time of my life..." and he really did with such great accomplishments on and off the screen. Patrick will always be in my heart. Please accept my blessings and prayers for those he left behind. To Lisa, you have been blessed with the greatest dance partner and soul mate one could ever hope to have I loved watching you dance together. There was such a magical, electrifying connection everytime you stepped out on the floor to dance. R.I.P. Patrick may you dance with the greats now up in heaven for the Lord and the angels. There will never be another hottie like you.

[credibility2]

We'll miss this genuine talent and kindhearted person. God bless him and comfort his family and friends during this difficult time.