Celebrities mourn the loss of ‘rock star’ Cummings

by Judy Kurtz - 10/17/19 10:36 AM ET

Many in Hollywood are mourning the death of Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.), calling the Maryland Democrat a “rock star” and “a giant among men.”

{mosads}Cummings, the chairman of the House Oversight and Reform Committee, died Thursday “due to complications concerning longstanding health challenges,” his office said. The longtime lawmaker — who was one of the House committee chairmen leading the Democrats’ impeachment inquiry into President Trump — was 68.

After news of his death broke early in the morning, celebrities — many of them who have publicly denounced Trump — took to social media to praise Cummings.

The epitome of strength, courage and leadership. #RIPElijah https://t.co/UQALjMYV7s

— Chris Evans (@ChrisEvans) October 17, 2019

RIP hero, @RepCummings https://t.co/neJRi5BLEo

— Mark Ruffalo (@MarkRuffalo) October 17, 2019

My Heart is Broken,
Elijah Cummings Has Died.
Elijah Cummings Was a GIANT Among Men,a Fearless Man,a GentleMan,A Man Of Great Character,A Stand Up Man,A Man To Revere,A Man To EMULATE.I Felt Safe When I Saw Him Wade Into Any Situation.
ELIJAH CUMMINGS WAS A GODLY MAN
✝️☮️

— Cher (@cher) October 17, 2019

Brought to tears to wake up to this sad news. So honored to have had the privilege of spending time with this powerful gentle giant. If we could have just a hint of #Elijacummings dignity, integrity, honesty, & constant fight for what is right the world might be a better place. https://t.co/Kc76IM95jo

— Rosie Perez (@rosieperezbklyn) October 17, 2019

A champion for the poor and downtrodden, Rep. Elijah Cummings has departed. He strove through decades of service to bring justice and dignity to greater numbers in this world. We honor his life and his work, and pledge to continue his fight. Rest now, great soul. pic.twitter.com/r4IThSvk8L

— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) October 17, 2019

What a profound loss. I’m so sorry for your loss, and the country’s loss.#RIP #elijacummings https://t.co/nNgo1oa8qY

— Debra Messing (@DebraMessing) October 17, 2019

Comedian Chelsea Handler said she regretted never having met Cummings, while musician Questlove shared a simple message of “respect” for the late congressman.

Elijah Cummings was and will remain a rock star in all the hearts of people who met him and were lucky enough to know him. I never met him, but I wish I had, and I always admired his passion for his country. A man who was never for sale. @RepCummings

— Chelsea Handler (@chelseahandler) October 17, 2019