Russell Crowe and Ricky Gervais lead the tributes to late star Ronnie Corbett.
Following the tragic news that the legendary comedian had passed away on Thursday (31Mar16) surrounded by his "loving family", celebrities from all fields were quick to offer their condolences and share their memories of the diminutive star.
Gladiator star Russell used one of Corbett's most famous catchphrases in his tribute, writing on Twitter.com: "And it's good night from Ronnie Corbett . Thanks for all the laughs mate."
Fawlty Towers star John Cleese also paid tribute to his "mentor" in an emotional post: "Just heard about Ronnie C.So sad.He had the best timing I've ever watched.He was a great, kind mentor and a wonderfully witty companion."
Corbett is best known in the U.K. for his sketch show The Two Ronnies with Ronnie Barker, which ran in the 1970s and 1980s. Barker died in 2005.
The Two Ronnies set the bar high for British comedy, and inspired countless wannabe comedians, including The Office star Ricky.
Upon hearing the news of Corbett's passing Ricky tweeted: "RIP the lovely, funny legend Ronnie Corbett. It was an absolute honour & joy to have known him." The pair previously worked together on Ricky's show Extras, when Corbett appeared in a hilarious cameo.
David Walliams added in his own heartfelt message: "Goodbye my friend and comedy idol #RonnieCorbett Thank you for all the laughs. It was the greatest honour to know and work with you."
While Jack Whitehall wrote: "RIP Ronnie Corbett, what a brilliant and funny man he was", and Timmy Mallett posted: "God bless Ronnie Corbett. Small in stature with big glasses, huge heart and massive talent. Thank you for all the smiles and happiness."
Flight of the Conchords star Jemaine Clement cited his favourite Corbett joke in his condolence message, writing: "Aw man. RIP Ronnie Corbett. Favourite joke: sign on fortune teller's caravan 'closed due to unforeseen circumstances'."
Omid Djalili referenced the amount of celebrity deaths already in 2016, writing: "And now Ronnie Corbett. What an absolutely delightful man. Sad sad news ?RIP."
And Julian Clary tweeted: "R.I.P. Ronnie Corbett, a master of his craft and a huge star."
Sherlock actor Mark Gatiss was also quick to pay tribute to the star, writing that the comedian had been "hugely supportive" during his early days on comedy show The League of Gentleman.
He added: "Ronnie Corbett was the most generous, charming and lovely man. The day after we won the Perrier (comedy award), I saw him in the queue. It was like being blessed by all our childhood Saturday nights. RIP dear man."
The 5ft comedian is survived by his wife Anne Hart, who he married in 1965. The couple had three children, but their first child , son Andrew, died at six weeks due to a heart defect. His two daughters Emma and Sophie Corbett are actresses.
