Gwyneth Paltrow on Cory Monteith: ‘My heart breaks for Lea and the entire Glee family’

Hollywood is still reeling from the news that Glee star Cory Monteith died unexpectedly on Saturday at the age of 31. Gwyneth Paltrow, who guest-starred several times on the Fox musical dramedy as substitute teacher Holly Holliday, has released a statement: “Cory was a sweet and talented man. My heart breaks for Lea and the entire Glee family.”

While celebrities expressed their grief and shock on Twitter, the executive producers of Glee and Fox issued the following statement: “We are deeply saddened by this tragic news. Cory was an exceptional talent and an even more exceptional person. He was a true joy to work with and we will all miss him tremendously. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.

A representative for Lea Michele, Monteith’s girlfriend and co-star, told People: “We ask that everyone kindly respect Lea’s privacy during this devastating time.”