'Gonna miss you, champ': From Viola Davis to John Cusack, Hollywood mourns George Foreman

USA Today

22-03-2025

Hollywood is mourning the loss of one of their own in the wake of boxing legend and grill namesake George Foreman's death.
Foreman's family shared news of the 76-year-old's death on Friday night after releasing a statement on his official Instagram account. Celebrities from John Cusack to Viola Davis mourned his loss on social media after the news broke.
Cusack wrote a tribute to Foreman, saying he was "beyond a legend in the ring," calling the late boxer "just a wonderful spirit" and "an incredibly kind generous man" in person."
'I always remember every encounter with great gratitude − it was an honor to know him," Cusack wrote.
Rapper and Public Enemy co-founder Chuck D took to X to mourn Foreman's loss, writing: "RIP this hitting me tuff as George was one of my HEROES."
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Foreman was a two-time world heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist who is regarded as one of the hardest punchers in boxing history. One his most memorable punches was the knockout blow he landed against Michael Moorer in 1994 when Foreman became the oldest heavyweight champion in history at 46.
George Foreman didn't just Rumble in the Jungle. He lived a remarkable life.
Jeff Dye, Foreman's comedian co-star from 2016's NBC reality travel show "Better Late Than Never," also paid tribute on X: "Heartbroken to hear about my guy @GeorgeForeman. Loved this guy. Had the pleasure of traveling, talking, crying, arguing, eating and hanging with this guy all over the globe ... Gonna miss you champ."
His "George" sitcom co-star Sheryl Lee Ralph wrote a lengthy Instagram caption Foreman's honor on Friday.
"My heart is with the Foreman family today. George had a smile as wide as his spirit and a heart full of kindness. I'll never forget how eager he was to learn, grow, and give his all," Ralph said. "These photos take me back to 1993, when we filmed his very first sitcom, George. From the ring to the screen, he showed up with joy, humility, and heart. Rest well, my friend."
EGOT winner Viola Davis took to Instagram, sharing a People magazine obituary.
"You were a man of vision ... of scope, of talent, and of enormous heart. We felt your presence. You felt like home. God bless your family. Rest well, sir. Keep pouring down that love—we need it down here. 💔🕊️🙏🏿
Contributing: James H. William, Josh Peter