Reaction to the Passing of The Tragically Hip’s Gord Downie

To say that a legend was lost today would be a massive understatement as the entire music world is mourning the passing of The Tragically Hip’s Gord Downie.

Earlier this morning, The Tragically Hip revealed that Gord had lost his battle with cancer.

Statement – https://t.co/vOTvlJ2jqA pic.twitter.com/Z6dHmr1xpM

— The Tragically Hip (@thehipofficial) October 18, 2017

As expected, the reaction has been swift, and powerful with everyone from celebrities, to politicians to fellow musicians expressing their sadness at the loss of Gord.

So long, Gord. Thank you. https://t.co/hFG1ujudez

— Ryan Reynolds (@VancityReynolds) October 18, 2017

There will never be another one like you, Gord. Rest in peace my friend.

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) October 18, 2017

Gord Downie was an inspiration to us all. His music is an essential part of the soundtrack of Canada. His diagnosis was heartbreaking but he faced illness with courage and a commitment to continue doing what he loved. He will be missed.

— John Tory (@JohnTory) October 18, 2017

I've asked that the Toronto sign be lit in red & white today to honour Gord Downie. The sign will be dimmed tonight at 11 p.m. to mourn this great Canadian. #TragicallyHip

— John Tory (@JohnTory) October 18, 2017

A Canadian Icon.

Rest in peace, Gord. pic.twitter.com/cLHgyhhSr7

— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) October 18, 2017

What a gift Gord was to all of us. The country feels gutted right now. #RipGord #Poets

— Rick Mercer (@rickmercer) October 18, 2017

RIP Gord Downie.

— Seth Rogen (@Sethrogen) October 18, 2017

Heartbroken today. Few Canadians touched this country like Gord Downie. Thank you for everything you gave us. My deepest condolences. pic.twitter.com/00DdU6IVZn

— Doug Gilmour (@douggilmour) October 18, 2017

The most fearless frontman I ever had the honour to witness. Rest In Peace, Gord. #RIPGord https://t.co/2Urf6T1kZM

— Tara Slone (@TaraSlone) October 18, 2017

Fans have also taken to social media to express their feelings…

RIP Gord Downie. A true Canadian icon. #TragicallyHip pic.twitter.com/XItBUkWcac

— Made In Canada (@MadelnCanada) October 18, 2017

If you seen a #TragicallyHip concert then you know exactly how awesome and Canadian the Hip truly were. R.I.P Gord!

— JaY (@SickNasty72) October 18, 2017

https://twitter.com/hashtag/TragicallyHip?src=tren&data_id=tweet%3A920647794875965441

R.I.P Gord Downie you are a Canadian icon you and the rest of the band truly had the weight of this great country Canada on your shoulders.

— chaddy (@CattlemanChaddy) October 18, 2017

Gord Downie showed us how to live. And when faced with death, how to live even better.#RIPGordDownie

— Elliedragonfly (@LovesVanCity) October 18, 2017

He was OUR CANADIAN Frontman #RIP #Gord #Downie ..You will be forever remembered pic.twitter.com/wmJLGfcto3

— Elvira Caria (@VoiceGirlElvira) October 18, 2017

https://twitter.com/TriciaMeaud/status/920648067002482688

https://twitter.com/KmcSkier/status/920649083618029568

@gorddownie was a True Canadian Legend! #courage
THANKS for 'Keeping Us Pushin' @thehipdotcom
#RIPGord You will forever be missed. pic.twitter.com/MgBmwqx7up

— I ?? Ottawa (@I_Love_Ottawa) October 18, 2017

Talk about a band that's wound through the timeline of your life… they are it for me. #RIPGord #TragicallyHip pic.twitter.com/9NLgiyLlXI

— Blubelle (@Blubelle17) October 18, 2017

Gord’s family released the following statement:

Last night Gord quietly passed away with his beloved children and family close by.

Gord knew this day was coming – his response was to spend this precious time as he always had – making music, making memories and expressing deep gratitude to his family and friends for a life well lived, often sealing it with a kiss… on the lips.

Gord said he had lived many lives. As a musician, he lived “the life” for over 30 years, lucky to do most of it with his high school buddies. At home, he worked just as tirelessly at being a good father, son, brother, husband and friend. No one worked harder on every part of their life than Gord. No one.

We would like to thank all the kind folks at KGH and Sunnybrook, Gord’s bandmates, management team, friends and fans. Thank you for all the help and support over the past two years.

Thank you everyone for all the respect, admiration and love you have given Gord throughout the years – those tender offerings touched his heart and he takes them with him now as he walks among the stars.

Love you forever Gord.

The Downie Family

The next few days and months will be a tough one for many Canadians. Share with us your favourite Gord memory below.