Rihanna, Mariah Carey Mourn Passing of 'True Legend' Cicely Tyson

Following the death of 96-year-old actress Cicely Tyson, celebrities, journalists, politicians and other famous figures on Twitter left messages of remembrance and thanks to mark her passing.

While her cause of death has not yet been revealed, she is remembered for her passion for civil rights and acting roles portraying strong Black women, including her Academy Award-nominated role in the 1972 film Sounder, her supporting role in the 1991 film Fried Green Tomatoes and in the 2011 film The Help.

Short after Tyson's passing, singer Mariah Carey wrote, "Honoring the life of the legendary Ms. Cicely Tyson, a queen who graced the world with her beauty, strength and talent. Grateful for her legacy and for the chance to read her unvarnished truth. Rest In Power."

Actress Mia Farrow wrote, "She was magnificent- in every role she played and in each treasured encounter I had with her over decades. Cicely Tyson lived a long time but we wanted more - more time, more performances. Rest in Peace magnificent Lady."

Actress Laverne Cox wrote, "To have gotten to be in the same room as you multiple times, is truly to have been in the presence of GREATNESS!!. There are no words, just all the feelings you've evoked in us all and the indescribable blueprint, legacy you leave for us all. Thank you REST IN POWER! #cicelytyson".

Actress Reese Witherspoon wrote, "Heart broken to hear about Cicely Tyson's passing. I had the honor of traveling with her to visit children in N.O. after the devastation of Katrina. What a gift we experienced to be graced by her wisdom, kindness & compassion for all. She will be missed. May God carry her home."

Actress Cynthia Nixon wrote, "America has had a lot of great actresses, but none greater than Cicely Tyson. Rest in Power."

Actor George Takei wrote, "Cicely Tyson has passed. She led a pioneering career in film, a remarkable feat for an African American woman born 96 years ago. An Emmy and Tony award winning actress, her career on screen and on stage stretched an incredible seven decades. We will miss you dearly, Cicely. RIP."

Former professional basketball player Earvin "Magic" Johnson wrote, "Because of her sacrifice & resilience, today we enjoy so many movies portraying strong Black woman characters. Simply put, Cicely Tyson is Black royalty & her incredible talent and spirit will be missed. Cookie & I are praying for the entire Tyson family and her loved ones."

Musician Carole King wrote, "We mourn Cicely Tyson. A Commanding presence in American theater & film. Rest In Peace & Power."

Singer Rihanna wrote, "A true legend!! Rest in power Cicely Tyson."

Actress Wanda Sykes wrote, "Cicely Tyson opened doors, broke through ceilings, and made pathways. We will be forever grateful."

TV producer Shonda Rhimes wrote, "She was an extraordinary person. And this is an extraordinary loss. She had so much to teach. And I still have so much to learn. I am grateful for every moment. Her power and grace will be with us forever."

Journalist Dan Rather wrote, "Cicely Tyson was a force on screen and stage. She defined the role of star actor on her terms, and made the arts and America better for it. Her performances were powerful and enchanting. They stuck with you long after the credits ran or the curtain dropped. May she Rest in Peace."

Rapper Common wrote, "I'm so sad to hear the news that trailblazing artist and cultural icon Cicely Tyson has passed away today. While she may be gone, her work and life will continue to inspire millions for years to come. God Bless."

Actor Jeffrey Wright wrote, "Cicely Tyson was an archetypal American woman on screen & off. She radiated dark grace. Beautiful. To have spent a bit of time with her was a gift. And I have not seen nor ever will see a greater stage performance than her turn on B'way in The Trip to Bountiful at 89-yrs-old. RIP".

Actor Ryan Jamaal Swain wrote, "You are and were the blueprint. To share space with you was to share space with a seeker of truth in every moment. Thank you for our talks. Thank you for you. Thank you for showing me the true meaning of a God thing. Rest well. #CicelyTyson".

Apple CEO Tim Cook wrote, "A pioneer with purpose. Cicely Tyson's talent redefined theater, film and television. Her courage, resilience and grace changed the entertainment landscape for generations to come. May she Rest In Power."

Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson wrote, "Though we are not related, her mother was friends with my grandmother in the West Indies, with strongly resonant struggles and triumphs. Farewell to a force of nature unto herself — in person, on stage, and on the screen. Cicely Tyson, RIP (1924-2021)."

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo wrote, "Cicely Tyson was a groundbreaking trailblazer who inspired generations across mediums with her talent and grace. A champion for civil rights and a daughter of East Harlem, she inspired us all."

Democratic California Representative Maxine Waters wrote, "So saddened to hear my friend #CicelyTyson has passed-one of the most profound, talented, & celebrated actors in the industry. She was a serious actor, beautiful & spiritual woman who had unlocked the key to longevity in the way she lived her life. Forever all my love & respect."

Author Stephen King wrote, "Cicely Tyson, one of the greats, has passed. May angels sing her to her rest."

Actress Peppermint wrote, "What an incredible legacy you leave behind....and an equally incredible absence we will feel. Rest the absolute power! #CicelyTyson"

Actress Zendaya wrote, "This one hurts, today we honor and celebrate the life of one of the greatest to ever do it. Thank you Cicely Tyson. Rest in great power."

Democratic Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock wrote, "A stage & screen icon, Cicely Tyson used her great talent to tell the stories of Black women and Black history with dignity and grace. Through her acclaimed performances, her philanthropy & more, her life will continue to inspire generations. Job very well done, Ms. Tyson."

Actress Ryan Destiny wrote, "Pioneer, legend, icon, QUEEN. Thank you for being so many things to us. For us. Rest In Peace to the beautiful Miss Cicely Tyson. Heartbroken but man, what a life lived."

Actress Phylicia Rashad wrote, "Now light has returned to light. #CicelyTyson."

Journalist Gayle King wrote, "Thank you Cicely Tyson... for everything..."

Newsweek contacted Cicely's agent for comment.