Whitney Houston’s Death: Celebrities React

Credit: Jason Merritt/Getty Images.

Celebrities quickly reacted to pop icon Whitney Houston’s sudden death on Saturday. Below, a collection of statements and tweets that Houston’s friends, colleagues and fans have released:

Quincy Jones: ”I am absolutely heartbroken at the news of Whitney’s passing.  Ashford & Simpson first made me aware of Whitney when she was just sixteen, and I always regretted not having had the opportunity to work with her.  She was a true original and a talent beyond compare.  I will miss her terribly.”

Mariah Carey: “Heartbroken and in tears over the shocking death of my friend, the incomparable Ms. Whitney Houston. My heartfelt condolences to Whitney’s family and to all her millions of fans throughout the world. She will never be forgotten as one of the greatest voices to ever grace the earth.”

Nick Cannon: “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord’ RIP to Whitney Houston a true queen.”

Katy Perry: “So devastating. We will always love you Whitney, R.I.P.”

Ellen DeGeneres: “Very sad news about Whitney. My heart and prayers go out to her daughter and family.”

Russell Simmons: “R.I.P. Whitney Houston, really can’t believe this.”

Kim Kardashian: ”Just heard the tragic news that Whitney Houston passed away. I pray for her daughter & loved ones. We will always love you Whitney…”

Justin Bieber: “Just heard the news. so crazy. One of the GREATEST VOICES EVER just passed. RIP Whitney Houston. My prayers go out to her friends and family.”

Nick Lachey: “How tragic to hear about Whitney Houston’s passing. Such a shame. She had one of the most iconic voices of my lifetime.”

Wendy Williams: “My family & I are saddened by the loss of a true icon & legend – Whitney Houston. Our thoughts & prayers are w/ the entire Houston family.”

Dwyane Wade: “RIP to a legend..Sad day for music lovers…Whitney Houston should be celebrated 4 blessing us with her gifts..#Icon #mother #beautiful”

Aretha Franklin: “I just can’t talk about it now.  It’s so stunning and unbelievable.  I couldn’t believe what I was reading coming across the TV screen.  My heart goes out to Cissy, her daughter Bobbi Kris, her family and Bobby.”