Jennifer Aniston Breaks Silence On Norman Lear's Death: 'An Extraordinary Life'

Hollywood continues to honor the life and legacy of the legendary Norman Learand actress Jennifer Aniston is the latest to share a heartfelt tribute to the icon.

Lear passed away on Tuesday at the prime age of 101 after a long and successful career that saw him create over 100 shows. Aniston was one of the major stars who celebrated the late screenwriter for his 100th birthday in the ABC special "Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter."

The "Friends" actress took to her Instagram to pay tribute to the "All In the Family" creator, sharing two heartwarming photos of her doting on the late centenarian. In one frame they shared a tight hug and in the second she stared at him lovingly while placing her hand on his face.

"Norman Lear. 💔 His shows shaped my childhood and getting to know him was one of my greatest honors. He made such a difference," she began her outpour.

Aniston continued, "A huge impact on television and humanity. He was able to tackle and discuss heated political conversations during difficult and charged times and we were able to laugh and learn. I yearn for those days. When creativity was a learning tool and could inspire people to maybe think just a little bit differently. And of course to laugh. Our greatest source of healing."

She went on to describe the "One Day At A Time" producer as the "kindest and gentlest man," recalling how he made her feel like the only one in the room when she was in his presence. "He made everyone feel this. Even when someone believed differently than him," Aniston wrote of Lear.

Concluding her tear-jerking tribute, Aniston concluded, "He knew how to give voice to all sides and somehow in the process bring people closer together. May we take a page from Norman’s playbook as a way of honoring his life. An extraordinary life."

She added, "Rest in peace Norman. It was a gift to stand in your light. 🕊️❤️."

Fans wasted no time comforting Aniston in the comments section. Her tribute to Lear comes just a month after she lost her close pal and "Friends" co-star Matthew Perry. A fan wrote, "D--n. Going through these losses back to back is crazy. I can’t imagine," while another penned, "I feel so bad she has to go through these losses."

Another comment read,  "Tough times for you Jennifer! With great love comes great sorrows 🥰🥰," while this heartbreak fan stated, "Jen, I really wish I could hug you and tell you how special you are to me! RIP @thenormanlear 🥹💕."

Actress Carol Burnett also joined Aniston and others to pay tribute to the late Lear. Alongside a photo of her presenting the late filmmaker with the Carol Burnett Award at the Golden Globes in 2021, the iconic comedian wrote:

"I'm sorry I never got to work with him, but I'll always be grateful that I knew him as a friend. 🤍

Lear helped to change the landscape of American comedy by introducing political and social themes to the sitcom. His family confirmed his demise in a statement that read, "Thank you for the moving outpouring of love and support in honor of our wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. Norman lived a life of creativity, tenacity, and empathy."

The statement continued, "He deeply loved our country and spent a lifetime helping to preserve its founding ideals of justice and equality for all. Knowing and loving him has been the greatest of gifts. We ask for your understanding as we mourn privately in celebration of this remarkable human being."

According to Lear's publicist, the TV legend passed away in his Los Angeles home of natural causes. He was survived by his six children and numerous grandchildren.

RIP Norman Lear