Many people were shocked by Leslie Jordan’s untimely death today and were saddened by it. Throughout his long and illustrious career, Jordan has collaborated with a number of famous people, including Sean Hayes from the television show Will & Grace, where Jordan played Beverley Leslie. Hayes, who co-starred with Jordan on the television show Will & Grace as Jack, sent a heartfelt tribute to his friend on Twitter, saying: “My heart is crushed.” One of the funniest persons I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with was Leslie Jordan. He was adored by everyone he had ever met.
No one else will ever compare to him. a gifted individual with a hugely compassionate heart. I will miss you, dear friend. On Will & Grace, Megan Mullaly, who played Karen Walker, the adversary of Jordan’s character, wrote: “My heart is in such pain. It’s just unbelievable to me. Without a doubt, Leslie Jordan was great. That saying is frequently used, but I’m not convinced it always applies. There aren’t many people who excel at anything in particular. Leslie, though, was a comedy maestro who was impeccably humorous. His timing and delivery both seemed to come naturally. That is the best there is—what a warm, jovial, and loving individual.”
Eric McCormack similarly expressed his affection for Jordan in his writing, “I was devastated to read of the passing of @thelesliejordan, the funniest and flirtiest southern gent I’ve ever met. It was easy to see the happiness and humour he brought to every episode of #WillandGrace. nearly thirty years too soon to be gone. My dear, you were adored.” Online, many people began to express their admiration for Jordan. Paul Feig tweeted a touching tribute to Jordan for his old Ski-Patrol co-star Twitter, writing: “Just heartbroken to hear this. When Leslie and I were both in Ski Patrol in the 1980s, we worked together as actors, and he was the finest. a real sweetheart and such a hoot. Without him, the world is a far more depressing place. RIP, Leslie.”
Jordan was featured in a video released by actor Dylan McDermott with the caption: “Today we lost a fantastic one. I had an amazing friend in @thelesliejordan. I met Leslie through American Horror Story, and we enjoyed making each other laugh. Recently, we discussed doing another show as twin brothers on the phone. He was really my brother. Leslie, I love you. You will be sorely missed.” George Takei, a legendary co-star and actor, posted a touching message about Jordan. “Leslie Jordan pleased us with his numerous appearances in television and cinema, so I’m shocked to hear of his passing. Having experienced a medical emergency, he died in an automobile accident. Leslie, we are devastated by your passing and will miss your laughter and unique spirit.”
Jordan made for excellent television. It is a tragic loss for fans and the entire world that he had such a lovely social media presence that offered followers specific happiness that only he could. Without Jordan’s sharp wit, everything will be a little bit darker, and he will be missed.