Eddie Murphy pays tribute to brother Charlie: 'Our hearts are heavy with loss'
EDDIE MURPHY has paid tribute to his older brother Charlie who passed away yesterday morning at the age of 57.
Comedy icon Charlie Murphy appears in True Hollywood Stories
Charlie's family released a statement saying that their "hearts are heavy with loss" after the death of the comedian following a battle with leukaemia.
"Charlie filled out family with love and laughter and there won't be a day that goes by that his presence will not be missed," the family wrote.
"Thank you for the outpouring of condolences and prayers. We respectfully ask for privacy during this time of great loss for al of us."
Charlie's manager confirmed that the star passed away in a New York City hospital whee he had been undergoing chemotherapy.
Eddie Murphy has paid tribute to his brother Charlie
Charlie was a stand-up comedian and co-wrote several of Eddie's hit movies
A statement released by Charlie's family thanked fans for the outpouring of support
He famously worked alongside Eddie, 56, on Chappelle's Show and co-wrote the likes of Are We There Yet and The Boondocks.
Charlie was also a successful stand-up comedian in his own right.
Celebrities flooded to Twitter to remember the late star and send their condolences to Eddie and the family.
Comedian Chris Rock wrote: "We just lost one of the funniest most real brothers of all time. Charlie Murphy RIP."
Chris Rock paid tribute to the late star on Twitter
Samuel L. Jackson also shared his love for the comedian
Esteemed actor Samuel L. Jackson also said: "Prayers Up for the Murphy family. Loved being around and working with Charlie!"
"After every gig, he rushed home to be with his kids. He died with gigs on the book," said DL Hughley, who recently worked alongside Charlie on his most recent tour.
Charlie was an active social media user and often posted inspirational quotes.
His final tweet, posted just hours before his death and later deleted, said: "Rise and Grind: 'Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle.' - Abraham Lincoln."